We chose Bel Air Cantina to celebrate our daughter’s 16th birthday, but unfortunately, it turned into one of the worst dining experiences we’ve had.
After being seated, it took about 15 minutes before anyone came to our table. We had to ask for water, and it took three separate requests before everyone received one. One of our sons ordered a Dos Equis and had to ask for it four different times. When drinks finally arrived, they were staggered and inconsistent, setting the tone for the rest of the evening.
Despite having a reservation for 8, even the basics weren’t handled well. Our chips and salsa came out with one bowl literally just crumbs—though the server did replace it after noticing. After placing our orders, we waited nearly an hour for food. When it finally arrived, it was brought out at different times rather than together. While most of us eventually received our meals, one of our sons never received his at all, despite us asking about it at least three times. When we followed up again, the server blamed the kitchen.
Throughout the evening, communication was extremely frustrating. Each time we tried to mention something missing or incorrect, the server would walk away mid-sentence. This happened multiple times, to the point where we actually felt the need to apologize for bringing up issues.
The food itself was inconsistent and disappointing. The tortilla soup was cold, with soggy tortillas at the bottom and only a few small pieces of chicken. Both carne asada bowls were missing rice and were only lukewarm. My wife’s chicken fajitas arrived late and were missing rice entirely. My daughter never received the side of rice and beans she ordered, even after asking twice, and our horchata drinks never came.
Given the delays and missing items, we told the server we would take the meals to go. However, this didn’t improve the situation. By the time everything was brought out, we were ready to leave. Even after telling the server we no longer wanted the horchatas, they were still brought out in to-go cups as we were walking out, which they charged us $6 each.
The only bright spot was my oldest son’s meal, which came out hot and he said tasted good—we all had to laugh at that point. Unfortunately, as we left a lady was complaining at the front desk about her food/service, which reinforced that this wasn’t an isolated experience.
Overall, this was a very disappointing visit, especially for what was supposed to be a special birthday celebration. We won’t be returning.