A cantina is a type of bar popular in Italy, Mexico and Spain.The word is similar in etymology to  canteen , and is derived from the Italian word for a cellar, winery, or vault. In Italy the cantina may also be used to store meat products such as salami.The term cantina entered the French language circa 1710 as cantine. It was used originally to refer to the shop of a sutler.he word is similar in etymology to  canteen , and is derived from the Italian word for a cellar, winery, or vault. In Italy the cantina may also be used to store meat products such as salami. The term cantina entered the French language circa 1710 as cantine. It was used originally to refer to the shop of a sutler.