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Cali Tajadas
Master Critic Review
Cali Tajadas
8.2
Cali Tajadas on Bay Ridge Avenue is a Colombian restaurant where skirt steaks, churrasco, and mixed grills arrive on sizzling platters with rice, beans, and sweet plantains. Soft lighting, a small bar, and Latin playlists make it feel more intimate than its modest storefront suggests. It works well for couples who want a steak-heavy dinner that still feels neighborhood casual rather than formal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Churrasco steak platter, Entraña skirt steak, Carne asada with rice and beans
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Colombian-style steak platters with generous sides in a cozy room.
Who should go: Duos craving hearty grilled meats in a relaxed setting.
When to visit: Weekend evenings before peak family and group rush.
What to order: Churrasco, entraña skirt steak, carne asada plate.
Insider tip: Share one steak platter and add extra maduros to split.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Bay Ridge Avenue is available but competitive after 6pm; usually easier on nearby side streets a block or two inland.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans and a nice top work perfectly; no need for heels or jackets.
Noise level: Moderate — Latin music and sizzling platters create energy, but you can still hold a full conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — rice and beans, plantains, salads, sides, and cheese-based arepas are available.
Vegan options: Limited — vegetable sides and plantains work, but most mains are meat-focused.
Gluten-free options: Yes — most grilled meats, rice, beans, and plantains are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the cozy lighting and sizzling steak platters create instant atmosphere without feeling overly formal or intimidating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weeknights and early weekends, but calling ahead is smart for Friday and Saturday after 7pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families do come earlier in the evening, but it feels more adult and date-focused after 7pm.
Best For
Better for: Hearty Colombian-style steaks, generous portions, and a romantic-but-casual atmosphere that feels more lived-in than upscale steakhouses.
Skip if: You want white-tablecloth luxury, high-end wine programs, or a quiet fine-dining experience.