Asada Grill & Cantina

Asada Grill & Cantina is a casual Mexican and Spanish restaurant situated on a busy stretch of Highland’s 45th Street, just east of Kennedy Boulevard. It's the kind of place that locals drop by when they’re craving hearty, authentic flavors paired with a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. The dining room feels straightforward and clean, making it suitable for everything from casual family dinners to small celebrations, like birthdays.

The kitchen leans into classic Mexican staples and some Spanish influences, with a strong focus on grilled meats and fresh seafood. Among the crowd-pleasers are the grilled skirt steak dishes served alongside garnishes like guacamole and pico de gallo, and hearty options such as chicken and steak fajitas that arrive sizzling at the table. Seafood selections, like the grilled red snapper and shrimp cocktails, add variety for those wanting a break from red meat. Local diners often compliment the homemade touches, like their freshly made corn tortillas and the sample platters of nachos and quesadillas that let groups share and explore the menu together.

Drinks play an important part here, especially if you appreciate a well-mixed margarita or tropical-inspired cocktails like piña coladas and palomas. Though not every cocktail hits the mark, the bar generally does a good job complementing the food without overshadowing it. For a leisurely visit, weekend evenings or early dinners tend to be popular, when families and friends gather to unwind after the day.

The service experiences can vary; while some visitors find the staff friendly and attentive, there have been occasions when guests needed to flag down alternate servers for extra attention. Despite this, the warmth and effort from the team often make up for small service hiccups, creating a welcoming environment.

Overall, Asada Grill & Cantina suits those who want straightforward, flavorful Mexican and Spanish fare in a relaxed setting, with enough variety to suit different tastes. It’s a spot where locals come regularly to enjoy familiar favorites, share a round of chips and salsa or a sampler platter, and linger over platefuls of grilled meats and fresh seafood without fuss. If you’re in Highland and want a solid, approachable Mexican meal with a neighborhood vibe, this is a comfortable choice to consider.