About
Step through the gates at Sandrina's, and you're instantly in another world. It's all greenery, bright tile, and the smell of the herbs. It's a restaurant that has grown from a small deli into a full-on restaurant and bar. A mother-and-daughter team founded it, bringing their Greek background and love of cooking to the coast. The menu is all family recipes over the years, combined with local and seasonal produce, and there's just a palpable sense of happiness in the food.
Sandrina's has over the years become a real favorite with both locals and visitors, renowned for its inventive Mediterranean cuisine and its relaxed, friendly atmosphere. You can see the owners' love of art, food, and community in the vibrant murals that cover the walls and in the wine list, which is as thoughtfully curated as the menu. It's a place where you'll be treated to a meal that's special, without in any way being at all formal or stuffy.
Whether you're having a relaxed lunch or a romantic dinner under the stars, you'll dine as a friend in a homey yet unique setting.
Vibe
Sandrina's is very much a restaurant with a garden patio (which is a real treat, covered in bougainvillea and with a scattering of mosaic-topped tables). The patio is shaded and very peaceful, ideal for a cocktail in the afternoon or a candlelit dinner. Inside, there are hand-painted tiles, local art, and plenty of cozy nooks to sit in. It's a magical place at night with the string lights and lanterns and live music on certain nights.
Seating is on the intimate side with two-tops, larger tables for families and groups, and a fairly lively bar area where you can talk to the locals and try the day's specials. The reviews are consistently positive about the excellent, warm service and the relaxed, unhurried atmosphere. It's the sort of place you're encouraged to just sit down, relax, take your time, and enjoy the company you're with.
Sandrina’s Restaurant: Menu & Drinks
Start with the meze platter (a huge selection of hummus, tzatziki, dolmas and warm pita), which is absolutely perfect for sharing.
The grilled octopus is excellent, very tender and tasty with a touch of char, served over some nice crisp greens and with a good drizzle of lemon and olive oil. The moussaka is a great main course too, layers of aubergine, spiced minced beef and rich creamy bechamel baked until golden.
Another of the top menu choices at Sandrina's is the lamb shank, slow braised until it's absolutely tender and served with a rather good tomato and herb sauce over the usual creamy mashed potatoes. It's so tender the meat practically falls off the bone, and it's absolutely soaked in all the flavor of the sauce.
The menu has wood-fired pizzas, fresh seafood, and a range of veg options (stuffed peppers, Greek salad loaded with feta, etc.). The baklava is excellent and definitely worth trying for dessert. There's also a cocktail made with local fruit and herbs, and the wine list is excellent, with a good selection of Greek and regional Mexican wines. The staff are veryknowledgeable and will be more than happy to recommend a wine to go with your meal.
Dining at Sandrina's is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's the Mediterranean flavors, the Mexican spirit, and the real, genuine hospitality all combined. It's the place you go if you're having a special occasion or simply want to try something a bit different. It's a real standout on the Riviera Nayarit.
Local Tips
- Book in advance, particularly for weekends.
- The garden patio is essential to the full Sandrina's experience, so do request it when you book.
- Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.
- Check the events calendar for the live music and special tasting menus.
