Founded in 1996 by George Biel, Bandera has kept locals and tourists returning for years. Although there are no other locations besides the iconic brown shingled cabin on the side of Pacific Coast Highway, Bandera has many sister restaurants such as Gulfstream, R + D Cafe, and Houstons. Bandera has a variety of customers, from older couples on date nights to family dinners and young people getting a nice bite to eat before a night out. Bandera is a fast-paced restaurant with charismatic servers and managers. The warm-toned lights and cozy cabin vibe make the restaurant seem like it should be at the top of a snowy mountain instead of right off the Pacific Ocean. The paintings enhance the homey vibe of the restaurant; the warm colors and abstract shapes are perfect for Bandera. 

When eating at Bandera, you cannot leave without trying the famous crispy chicken sandwich. The first sign that this will be a meal to remember is when you pull into the parking lot; dozens of rotisserie chickens continuously spin over a warm fire. The chicken is carefully breaded and fried to perfection. The cool, crunchy coleslaw balances out the warm chicken and brings balance to your meal. There is a melted piece of Swiss cheese that tastes like it has just come directly from a cow off the Swiss Alps. The melody of favors in the sandwich makes your taste buds dance. The perfect pairing for this sandwich is the emerald kale and roasted chicken salad. The finely chopped kale is not only delicious but beautiful, as the whole color palette of greens sits on your plate. Your eyes eat first! The first bite is surprising as the salad is nutty and has a hint of spice, yet it is perfect for the dish. The same rotisserie chicken that has been rotating for hours stars in the salad, enhancing it to the next level. A final famous dish from Bandera that is necessary to order is the dip duo. The corn chips are as large as if made for a giant. The chips are paired with a cool guacamole and a spicy jalapeno queso – the two dips balance the plate perfectly. They are a great way to start a meal or as a treat to finish.

Although Bandera is more costly than your everyday restaurant, it is worth every penny. The restaurant’s quality, flavor, and atmosphere constantly bring in locals and tourists. Perfect for a special occasion or just a treat-yourself kind of day, Bandera is ready for you. They will make you feel loved and cared about with their staff and food.