Cantina Nicola (Nelson)

Cantina Nicola has been a Nelson institution for many years. I’ve eaten there a few times in the past but haven’t been to dine there since 2023.

In February 2026 new owners took over the business and friends from Southern California had told us they rated the food as authentically Mexican and some of the best they had tried outside of the USA.

It’s always interesting to see whether a familiar place can begin a new era retaining what’s great about the existing business but bringing their own flair to the dining experience. It can be a balancing act to keep both regulars and newcomers happy.

Clem and I decided to try out the chef’s choice menu recently and we were delighted by what we were offered. We both agreed that the fish tostadas were the best we’d ever had. Every dish struck exactly the right note with just the right balance of intensity and flavour profile. Everything tasted fresh and was thoughtfully presented. I don’t like pumpkin generally but I loved the baked pumpkin dish that we were served. The slow-cooked lamb main was simply ‘melt in your mouth’ good. The margaritas were absolutely spot on too!

The service was excellent and we felt warmly welcomed. The multinational team – Filipino and Columbian at present - create an inviting atmosphere and provided a steady flow of dishes to our table without making us feel rushed, even though we were the first sitting of the evening.

We wish the team all the best. If you haven’t been to Nicola’s Cantina for a while, try it out! Cantina Nicola website

Cantina Nicola Restaurant in Nelson