Mateo’s Cantina Introduce
As New Yorkers and Long Islanders, we are always on the lookout for authentic, high-quality local dining spots that offer both great food and a welcoming atmosphere. Mateo’s Cantina, located right in the heart of Wantagh, NY, is quickly becoming a standout destination for those craving genuine Mexican cuisine. Far beyond the standard fare, this establishment offers a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Mexico, right here in Nassau County. It’s a perfect spot whether you are looking for a quick bite, a casual family dinner, or a cozy place to enjoy drinks with friends. The commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional recipes is evident in every dish, from the tantalizing tacos to the robust main courses and inventive cocktails.
Mateo's Cantina has established itself as more than just a place to eat; it is a community hub where excellent service meets a relaxed, trendy, and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on being a destination that appeals to everyone, whether you are dining solo for lunch, planning a large group dinner, or seeking a comfortable spot for a date night. With a menu that is both extensive and carefully curated, it caters to all tastes, offering everything from classic comfort food to sophisticated regional specialties. Their focus on providing a consistently positive experience has earned them high praise from local patrons, who frequently highlight the friendly staff and the overall deliciousness of the food and drinks. When the craving for truly authentic Mexican food strikes on Long Island, Mateo’s Cantina is the name that should come to mind first.
Mateo’s Cantina is conveniently situated at 1929 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793, making it easily accessible for residents across Long Island and visitors to the area. Wantagh is a prime location in Nassau County, allowing for a comfortable drive and convenient access from various surrounding towns. For those arriving by car, the restaurant is well-prepared with multiple parking options. Patrons can utilize the Free parking lot available on-site, as well as Free street parking in the vicinity. This blend of on-site and street parking removes one of the common frustrations of dining out in the greater New York area.
Furthermore, accessibility is a priority at Mateo’s Cantina, ensuring that all members of the community can enjoy their dining experience comfortably. The location features comprehensive accommodations, including a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a designated Wheelchair accessible parking lot, a Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating. This attention to detail highlights their commitment to serving the diverse needs of the New York community, providing a welcoming environment for everyone looking to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors. The combination of its central address and its dedication to accessibility makes it a practical and appealing choice for any meal out in the area.
Mateo’s Cantina provides a comprehensive suite of service options designed to fit the busy lifestyles of New Yorkers and Long Islanders, offering flexibility whether you prefer to dine in or enjoy their food at home.
- Dine-in: Enjoy the full, vibrant atmosphere with comfortable seating, a Bar onsite, and excellent table service for lunch, dinner, or dessert. Reservations are accepted, making it easy to plan your visit, especially for groups.
- Delivery: Have your favorite Mexican dishes brought directly to your home or office.
- No-contact delivery: A convenient and safe option for receiving your order with minimal interaction.
- Takeout: Place your order and pick it up to enjoy high-quality Mexican food on the go.
- Curbside pickup: A highly convenient option, allowing you to quickly grab your order without needing to leave your vehicle.
- Table service: Full-service dining is offered for both lunch and dinner, ensuring a relaxed and attentive experience.
- Reservations: The restaurant Accepts reservations, making it simple to secure a table, particularly for larger parties or during peak dining hours.
- Payments: For ease of transaction, the restaurant accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
The unique attributes of Mateo’s Cantina set it apart as a premier Mexican dining destination in the Wantagh area. They focus on delivering a memorable experience through exceptional food, efficient service, and a great beverage selection.
- Fast service: Patrons frequently praise the quick and efficient service, making it an excellent choice for a lunch break or a time-conscious dinner.
- Great cocktails: The cocktail menu is a significant highlight, featuring unique and popular drinks like the potent Pica De A Madres (Spicy Margarita) ($16.00), the classic Mexico Lindo & Querido Margarita ($15.00), and the premium El Jefe Margarita ($19.00). They also offer the smoky Ay Mi MEZCALITA!!! ($16.00), along with Sangria ($17.00) and a Michelada ($15.00).
- Great beer selection: Complementing the food is a diverse and well-chosen selection of beers.
- Offerings: A full range of beverages is available, including Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine.
- Authentic Menu Variety: The menu includes staples like Guacamole & Chips ($17.00) and Queso Fundido ($18.00), a diverse La Taqueria section with specialty tacos such as Taco De Birria ($8.00) and Baja Fish Taco ($7.00), and extensive main courses (Pa' Rematar) like the popular Fajitas ($0.00), Grilled Arrachera Steak ($50.00), and Camarones En Crema De Chipotle ($30.00).
- Dessert Options: Don't miss the traditional Mexican desserts, including Coconut Flan ($12.00), fresh Churros ($15.00), and Tres Leches ($12.00).
- Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, creating an inviting and enjoyable setting.
- Kid-Friendly: The restaurant is Good for kids and provides High chairs and a dedicated Kids' menu, making it a great spot for family dining.
- Popularity: It’s a popular choice for Lunch, Dinner, and for those who prefer Solo dining, and is an ideal spot for Groups.
For directions, reservations, or to place an order for takeout or delivery, please use the following contact details:
- Address: 1929 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793
- Phone: (516) 214-0958
- Mobile Phone: +1 516-214-0958
For those in the New York area seeking a truly authentic and high-quality Mexican dining experience, Mateo’s Cantina offers a combination of factors that make it a uniquely compelling choice. Firstly, the menu is a celebration of Mexican culinary depth. While many places offer tacos and burritos, Mateo’s Cantina elevates the offering with specialty items like the rich Beef Birria Ramen Consommé ($14.00), the savory Chile Relleno ($29.00), and the exceptional Chuleta De Cerdo Al Tamarindo ($30.00), showcasing a commitment to regional and intricate flavors. The use of traditional preparation methods and fresh ingredients is evident, moving the dining experience beyond mere "comfort food" and into a category of refined, yet approachable, Mexican dining.
Secondly, the dedication to a superior customer experience is a constant highlight. With the Fast service and a staff known for being friendly and providing great suggestions, as noted by local diners, the Cantina ensures a positive visit every time. The emphasis on great service extends to their beverage program. The bar offers a wide range of top-shelf selections, including a Great cocktails and Great beer selection, making it a perfect spot for unwinding. The specialty margaritas, such as the spicy Pica De A Madres, are often cited as a must-try, distinguishing them from generic bar offerings.
Finally, the sheer convenience and flexibility of the service options cater perfectly to the Long Island lifestyle. Whether you need the speed of Curbside pickup, the safety of No-contact delivery, or the comfort of a Cozy and Trendy dine-in atmosphere with Table service, Mateo’s Cantina accommodates. The added benefit of being fully Wheelchair accessible and having abundant Free parking lot and Free street parking removes common dining hassles, positioning it as a top local choice for both spontaneous meals and planned celebrations. For New Yorkers seeking authentic flavor, reliable service, and a welcoming environment, Mateo’s Cantina in Wantagh is the undisputed local destination.
Mateo’s Cantina Food & drink
Drink Menu
- Pica De A Madres (Spicy Margarita) $16.00
Superbird Fuego Tequila, Ancho Reyes Verde Liqueur, Muddled Jalapeños, Agave Syrup, Lime Juice, Jalapeño Salt Rim
- Mexico Lindo & Querido Margarita $15.00
Jose Cuervo Tradicional Plata Tequila, Fresh Lime Juice, Triple Sec, Agave Syrup, Salt rim
- Sangria $17.00
Red, White OR Passion Fruit Sangria Served with Fresh Fruit
- Michelada $15.00
Beer of your choice, Clamato Juice, Lime Juice, Valentina sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Chamoy & Tajin Rim
- El Jefe Margarita $19.00
Don Julio Reposado Tequila, Grand Marnier, Lime Juice, Splash of Blood Orange Juice, Salt Rim
- Ay Mi MEZCALITA!!! $16.00
La Union Mezcal, Hibiscus Flower Juice, Agave Syrup, Fresh Lime Juice & Chamoy & Tajin Rim
Pa' Rematar
- Fajitas $0.00
Sautéed Onions & Peppers with your choice of Protein: Served with Mexican Rice, Pinto Beans, Crema, Guacamole & Pico de Gallo
- Chile Relleno $29.00
- Chicken Tinga Chimichanga $21.00
Deep Fried Flour Tortilla Stuffed with Chicken Tinga, Rice, Bean & Oaxaca Cheese topped with Chipotle Tequila Cream Sauce
- Camarones En Crema De Chipotle $30.00
Sautéed Jumbo Shrimp in Creamy Chipotle Sauce. Served with Mexican Rice & Arugula & Beet Salad
- Quesadilla $13.00
Flour Tortilla Filled Blend of Mexicans Cheeses, Served with Guacamole, Crema & Pico de Gallo on the side
- Gordo Burrito $23.00
Flour Tortilla Stuffed with your choice of your protein, Rice, Beans & Cheese side of Guacamole, Pico de Gallo & Sour Cream on the side
- Chuleta De Cerdo Al Tamarindo $30.00
Marinated Pork Center Cut Pork Chops, Served with Mexican Rice & Roasted Corn on the cob topped with Sautéed Onions & Tamarind Barbacoa sauce
- Grilled Arrachera Steak $50.00
Marinated Skirt Steak served with Mexican Rice, Pinto Beans, Pico de Gallo, Fried Panela Cheese & Grilled Onion
- Salmon Veracruzano $33.00
Pan Seared Salmon topped with Olives, Capers & Tomatoes Served with Mexican Rice & Beet Arugula Salad
Postres/ Desserts
- Coconut Flan $12.00
Homemade Mexican Coconut & Caramel Custard
- Churros $15.00
Crispy Fried Mexican pastries rolled in Cinnamon Sugar Served with Vanilla Ice Cream & Caramel sauce on side
- Tres Leches $12.00
Sponge Cake Made with Three Kinds of Milk & Caramel Sauce
Pal Arranque
- Queso Fundido $18.00
Melted Oaxaca & Tex Mex Cheese, Rajas, Refried Pinto Beans topped with Homemade Mexican Chorizo. Served with Corn Tortillas
- Ensalada De La Casa $14.00
Mixed of Lettuce, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Jicama, Avocado, Tex Mex Cheese & Tortillas Strips in Tamarind Vinaigrette Dressing on the side
- Guacamole & Chips $17.00
- Chicken Tortilla Soup $12.00
- Flautas De Pollo $18.00
3 Chicken Tinga Taquitos Fried topped with Pico de Gallo, Cotija Cheese & Smoked Chipotle Aioli
- Beef Birria Ramen Consommé $14.00
Braised beef birria, ramen noodles, onions, cilantro, and radish in a savory consome
La Taqueria
- Taco De Tinga De Pollo $7.00
Shredded Chicken with Mexican Spices, Queso Fresco, Cilantro, Onions & Radish
- Taco De Carne Molida $7.00
Seasoned Ground Beef. Lettuce, Pico de Gallo & Tex Cheese
- Taco De Calabasitas $6.00
Sauteed Zucchini, Onions, Peppers, Corn & Cilantro
- Taco De Chorizo $7.00
Homemade Mexican Style Sausage, Cilantro, Onions, Radish & Oaxaca Cheese
- Taco De Pollo A La Parrilla $7.00
Grilled Chicken, Cilantro, Onions, Radish & Cilantro Lime Crema
- Taco De Asada $8.00
Marinated Steak, Cilantro, Onions, Radish & Guacamole
- Baja Fish Taco $7.00
Pan Seared Mahi Mahi, Red Cabbage Slaw Jicama & Chipotle Aioli
- Taco Al Pastor $7.00
Slow-Roasted Marinated Pork & Pineapple, Cilantro, Onions & Radish
- Taco De Birria $8.00
Beef Birria, Oaxaca Cheese, Onions, Cilantro, Radish, side of Beef Consume
- Taco De Camarón $8.00
Grilled Shrimp, Cilantro Lime Crema topped with Pico de Gallo
Sides
- Mexican Rice $7.00
- Black Beans $7.00
- Side Of Pico De Gallo $5.00
- French Fries $6.00
- Side Of Guacamole $10.00
- Pinto Beans $7.00
- Refried Beans $8.00
Topped with Melted Cheese
Mateo’s Cantina Details
Service options
- Curbside pickup
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- On-site parking
- Parking
Mateo’s Cantina Photos










Mateo’s Cantina Location
Mateo’s Cantina Reviews
margaritatacosfresh foodbirriabirthdaysangriagripetortilla soupbartendertequila
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1This place is wonderful, the people are very friendly and the food is delicious. I loved the fajitas. I can't wait to return. I'll give it only 5 stars because I can't say more. Thank you very much for the excellent service.
September 18 · Vicky VegaFriday was our first time at Mateo’s! My husband Michael and I had a lovely time and our bartender Liz was amazing. She mixed the best drinks and provided us with great suggestions for different plates to try. We will definitely be returning soon! Highly recommend!
April 30 · Erica WosWe’ve been waiting to try Mateo’s for a while but since it is new and popular every time we’ve stopped by the wait times have been too long. We finally got in without a wait, probably because it was cold and rainy. The layout is not ideal as there are a number of tables right near the front door as soon as you walk in as well as right along the bar. We were seated at the table by the front door. Our server was very friendly and efficient. The main reason for the 5 star rating is the food. It is not typical Mexican and all of our meals were excellent. I’m hoping as the hype of being the new restaurant wears off the waits will go down and we will definitely be back.
December 03 · Mike PalazzoloUnfortunately we did not get the chance to try the food. We walked in and were seated there were several children in this place was more like a day care than a restaurant at 7pm the screaming kids were more than enough to make us want to leave.we asked to be seated a bit further away from the screaming kids(I have children of my own but I go out to enjoy my time not to have to deal with other ppls kids!) & as I was about to order a big roach crawled up next to my table. The waiter killed it and with that we got up and left with out even ordering anything. I was sad bc we were dying to try this place. Please get an exterminator & maybe we might try it in the future. Honestly very disappointing as I had heard good things about the food.
July 09 · ChristineI don't know what took me so long to try this place given it's so close to. my home. But I'm glad I did. It's a very nicely decorated place with really good food. The margaritas are top notch and the menu offers some specialities that go beyond the traditional Mexican fare. This place is a great addition to the neighborhood.
April 06 · Peter Acimovic
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