Cantina la Martina

"This dynamic Mexican restaurant is both nationally acclaimed and beloved by Kensington. The staff led by chef Dionicio Jimenez serve generous margaritas garnished with fruit-infused popsicles, baked branzino in a mezcal-salted crust, cabrito braised in pulque and agave leaves, countless taco options, and more." - Eater Staff, Ernest Owens

"Right across from Somerset station, this Mexican restaurant serves chicken chilaquiles for brunch, tinga tostadas for lunch, and braised pork shank and masa dumplings for dinner. The atmosphere is cozy–there are only a few tables and the walls are lined with handmade figurines like cacti, colorful chihuahuas, and antique plates. Since they’re open every day at 11am, you can get in a couple rounds of tacos and margs before noon and consider skipping out on the office for the rest of the day. " - alison kessler, candis mclean

"Kensington’s Cantina La Martina has mastered two things: incredible tamales and seafood cured in citrus. There are eight ceviche options on the menu, including an excellent vegetarian option with hearts of palm, and the only build-your-own-aguachile in town. The best one, though, is the Peruvian ceviche mixto with white fish, tuna, crab, octopus, choclo, sweet potato, and a fruity aji amarillo. Bring a few friends, a few bottles (it’s a BYOB), and eat unbelievably refreshing bites of the ocean. " - candis mclean

"Chef Dionicio Jiménez opened his Kensington restaurant to honor his Mexican heritage. His work has earned him significant recognition, including multiple James Beard Award nominations. The lunch menu offers a delightful twist on traditional nachos, featuring tortilla chips topped with a generous portion of Chihuahua cheese, pickled jalapeños,, onions, tomatoes, and a zesty salsa tatemada." - George Banks-Weston

"This Kensington restaurant works for every occasion, whether it’s a date, a hangout with friends, or a solo meal when only great tacos will cure your foul mood. The menu is full of large shareable dishes like a braised pork shank, specialty ceviches and aguachiles, and tamales, so it may be easy to overlook the tacos—that would be a mistake. The soft flour tortillas here are filled creatively—think herb-marinated and achiote-braised pork, roasted, smoky morita salsa, seaweed, and pickled habanero red onions. Just make sure you take a break between stuffing your face to answer your date’s questions about vacation plans and horoscope compatibility. " - alison kessler, candis mclean