The whimsical décor in this restaurant is almost enough reason to visit –wonderfully carved and painted coyotes dance the tango, drive elongated convertibles beneath the full moon, and generally have more fun than your average member of the species canis.
Happily, the Coyote Cantina is more than an art gallery that serves food – it’s a restaurant of note that serves excellent traditional and modern Mexican food at reasonable prices. Their carne asada may be the best steak in the South Bay emanating from something other than a steakhouse, and the Sonora ravioli – tossed in a garlic cream sauce with guajillo chili and pico de gallo – is a marvel. Come to appreciate the art on the plate and while you’re there, enjoy the art on the walls – or vice versa.
Coyote Cantina: 531 N. PCH, RB. 310-376-1066.
Runner-up: Palmilla, 39 Pier Ave., HB. 310-374-4440.
