By Abby Zeiser
As summer rapidly approaches and temperatures begin to rise, where better to seek refuge than a bar with an unobstructed view of the ocean and whose margaritas flow like water?
At Olita’s on the Wharf, you will find precisely that. Olita’s Cantina and Grille opened its doors in March 2003, and by June of that year the restaurant began its now-famous Taco Tuesday and Thursday specials.
Every Tuesday and Thursday, from when Olita’s opens at noon until closing at roughly 10:30 p.m., the price of a taco and a margarita or draft beer is $6.
Tacos are available with a choice of one of the following meat choices: shredded beef, chicken, pork, fish, and veggie. For $7, options are Carne Asada, Al Pastor (a Mexican-style BBQ pork), or fried shrimp. For a lobster taco, the price is $8.
On a recent trip with friends, I tried both the fish taco and the veggie taco.
The excellent fish tacos are loaded with fresh fish marinated in Mexican spices and served with cabbage, salsa, and sour cream. The veggie tacos come complete with buttery avocado on top and are just as good.
Olita’s doesn’t skimp on the alcohol in their margaritas—they are tangy with a definite kick of tequila.
Emily Caviglia, the owner’s daughter, is the general manager and bartender. She explained that the Taco Tuesday/Thursday special has grown in popularity since it began years ago and ,despite the loads of tourists the Wharf sees every summer, the locals remain faithful and fight for a spot.
The quality of the service and products at Olita’s makes the long wait worthwhile. Where else can you get a meal and a margarita for $6 in this town?
Michal Cordova, a Cabrillo College student, summed up his experience at Olita’s Taco Tuesday/Thursday, stating, “Honestly, I left there feeling happier than when I arrived.”
Olita’s also holds a typical but nonetheless noteworthy happy hour Monday through Friday from 3-6 p.m. Drink specials consist of $3 margaritas and well drinks, served up with chips and salsa on the house.
You cannot beat the view of Monterey Bay while sipping your cheap margaritas, as you dream of where the night might take you.
_For further information, Olita’s Cantina and Grille can be reached at (831) 458-9393._
