Elk Grove,

Photo Credit: Sunny Le

Tonight’s early dinner pick, Cicada Cantina, lived up to its motto: “Good Food. Good Drinks. Good Life.”

Atmosphere

Photo Credit: Sunny Le

Outdoor dining during these unprecedented times can be rather tricky. The statewide health order restricts indoor dining, requires mask wearing, and mandates social distancing. But there are still good options around if you know where to look. Cicada Cantina, one of Elk Grove’s newest and best-kept secrets, is definitely one of those options. If you would like a memorable dining experience while staying safe, look no further. Cicada is the place to go!

Elk Grove Tribune visited Cicada Cantina this week for some outdoor dining. After arriving, we were seated immediately by the host. The cool breeze enhanced the outside seating. The host welcomed us with warm smiles, a colorful menu, and a variety of drink specials.

Photo Credit: Lisa Stanley

Good Food

Photo Credit: Lisa Stanley

The menu offered a wide variety of choices, making our decision that much harder. They offer all-time favorite Mexican dishes such as fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos. There were a number of options for tacos including shrimp, street, Mahi Mahi, and cactus.

Craving more of an American dish? No problem. Burgers, Philly Cheesesteak, and chicken strip basket to the rescue!

Additional light menu options included soups and salads. For all the vegetarians, you’re covered as well!

We finally decided on Carne Asada Americano, a signature favorite featuring grilled marinated flank steak topped with three bacon-wrapped shrimp. It was served with potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables. Yes, it was a cheat meal. Fortunately, portion sizes were generous. Leftovers always make for a happy camper. Additionally, if you are looking for more of an appetizer, a must-try is the Cicada Nachos with your choice of meat. The melted jack cheese and salsa verde sauce will have you craving more.

Good Drinks

Photo Credit: Sunny Le

No matter what meal you choose, make sure to pair it with the right drink! The drink options were endless. Margaritas, mojitos, beers, wine, or just simple flavored iced tea will keep you refreshed and quench the thirst. We chose the peach tea for the perfect amount of peachy goodness. Give it a try on your visit!

Chips, salsa, and drinks were served shortly after we ordered. Perfectly flaky tortilla chips with two dips were offered: Salsa and a white dipping sauce. Both dips were equally addicting. Additionally, the wait time was short at ten 10 minutes or less. In fact, we barely made a dent in the chips before our meals arrived. Our plates came out piping hot and ready to devour. But not before capturing a picture!

Good Life

Photo Credit: Lisa Stanley

Dining out can bring some level of normalcy and a way to connect with family and friends. Whether you choose a curb-side order or dine-out, make sure you check out Cicada Cantina. You can rest assured your taste buds will be satisfied while maintaining Shelter-In-Place guidelines. Finally, stay safe, have fun, and enjoy it!

Good Food. Good Drinks. Good Life.