I visited on a Tuesday evening to mark National Taco Day while I was in the area. After parking in the conveniently located adjacent garage, I sauntered to the bar which was relatively empty even as there were many customers including a few families at...
Read More
I visited on a Tuesday evening to mark National Taco Day while I was in the area. After parking in the conveniently located adjacent garage, I sauntered to the bar which was relatively empty even as there were many customers including a few families at tables right behind me. The bar area looked clean and inviting. A bartender greeted me and handed me a menu after which chips and salsa came shortly. The staff proved to be rather straightforward and responsive throughout the evening, checking with me a couple of times to see how I was getting along.I ended up ordering a frozen margarita to start with the carnitas appetizer, a combination platter of chicken taco, enchilada, and tamale, some ropa vieja, and their sopapilla/churro combination dessert. The margarita had the right balance of alcohol to fruit flavor, and the carnitas appetizer of slow cooked pork had great flavor, texture, and spice heat that led me to finish every bite. The combination had chicken of a less shredded than pulled texture which I liked for a variation. The garnish was fresh, and I probably could have had more of the guacamole. I should have followed another bar patron who declined beans with his order. That accompaniment was not good at all for the soupy consistency and lack of discernible beans themselves. The enchilada and tamales themselves were okay although I would have appreciated more sauce and less cheese. The ropa vieja was unfortunately another disappointment. Poking my fork through the dish the orange liquid in the center and the bottom of the meat I can only assume was rendered fat from the meat. The shredded texture of the meat itself was fine, but that sight combined with the less than flavorful vegetables and plantains pushed me to not finish the plate. The black bean side with this dish was ironically quite good given my experience with their version of beans earlier. Finally the dessert which I requested without caramel and chocolate sauces arrived as asked. The churros were a good portion and had a crispy exterior and a closet to melt-in-the-mouth interior. The sopapillas needed to be airier and lighter as these were dense and fried a little too much for my taste.Overall my meal totaled around $67 excluding tax and tip after taking advantage of happy hour specials for my drink and appetizer. I am not sure whether I would return based on this experience, but I suppose I could try another dish or two and see if the cooking proves different.