I hesitate to write this review--because they have limited seating and no one needs to be spreading the word. But I am shocked that there are so few photos of the food. And I haven't felt compelled to write a review good or bad in several months. [previous poster: this is NOT a 'hole in the wall' which is not based on size alone].
I've been to this place a few times now. It may become weekly, if it hasn't already. Let's start with the chips. They're thin, light, crispy and not too grainy--my favorite texture. That in and of itself is difficult to find. They come with a carafe of fresh salsa (not chunky) that is not too spicy. If you like spicy, add the hot sauce from the bottles on the table. The carafe is a good way to do it, sanitary but with no messy lids to deal with.
Each meal is freshly made to order. The meat is tender relative to other competition. There seems to be a nice proportion of each element, w/generous amounts of sauce. Nothing is so overly seasoned that you can't appreciate the original ingredients. In fact, if you are used to processed foods and poorly cooked food that is over-seasoned to hide the bad quality, then you may not like this place!
Proportions: there is plenty of food for a grown man so be prepared to take home left overs, or to feel completely stuffed after cleaning your plates.
The food is refreshing in it's fresh simplicity, succeeds in not feeling greasy or over-seasoned, or being too much of one ingredient.
The menu itself was designed by someone who knows what they're doing graphically + includes descriptions of the ingredients. Nothing worse than poorly designed menus with no descriptions.
I've ordered a trio of crispy tacos (carnitas, beef, chicken), the Crazy Mexican Sampler (a fun assortment condiments with their delightful chips) because I wanted something light, Taquitos (fun crispy rolls of your choice of meat with a nice assortment of greens and condiments, a Shrimp Cocktail which looks impressive (shrimp swimming in mild cocktail sauce with surprise morsels of fresh avocado), and I had a craving & gave it a shot: Buffalo Wings.
I have to say, ironically enough for the type of cuisine, they may be the best buffalo wings I've had at any restaurant in town. Not wimpy in size, not overcooked, not over-seasoned. They sauce was just right, just spicy and tangy enough with no weird off flavors to speak of. Plenty of fresh celery, none of those slices that were cut days ago sitting in water (or dehydrated). To top it off, the ranch sauce was a delicious complement. This appetizer pretty much makes a meal for me since the wings were succulent and meaty. I typically prefer crispy wings, but these were so pleasing that I didn't think I was missing that texture.
I've seen a lot of grilled main entrées that look fantastic which are served on a sizzling pan, fish, steak, seafood, fajitas, etc. Everyone always comments on how good their dish is.
Finally, here is a restaurant that that doesn't feel like all the others which serve the same dense food. The food served here seems lighter, fresher, and maybe a tad healthier. A place where I can feel confident to be adventurous to explore the menu, rather than sticking to one thing every time for fear of being disappointed--which happens more times than not.
Drinks, like margaritas are huge and delicious. Hitting the spot when you feel like one.
Tips: Don't go if you're in a hurry. Don't go at normal meal times when there are rushes, you might have to wait. They get busy! The staff could be a little more attentive as to when to give you the check instead of you having to ask, so plan ahead. But wait time on the food, once ordered, is good. It seems like they would benefit from one more person on the floor to check on tables, fill requests, and bus them. It's just long enough to be noticeable but their priority is getting the food out.
The music is appropriate for the theme, not too loud or blaring as it is at other places. I like being able to talk to my friends & hear what they have to say. I also have no problem eating here alone, in fact, there are lots of individuals that pop in for a good meal.
The staff is friendly--unless they get busy and are concentrating on what needs to be done in which case they might feel slightly neutral to you. I don't think it's personal. Their days must go fast with such steady business.
The chef in particular is observant of his patron's needs, and there is thoughtfulness delivered with every plate.
My favorite Mexican restaurant has long been Tortilleria Perches. Caesar's Old Mexico now ranks nearly equally. The food is different enough that they are not quite in direct competition for my taste buds. TP is authentic Mexican. But it's friendly competition since they are family friends. It's nice to see a new, thriving local restaurant. I am looking forward to many more meals to come.
But you didn't read this so you are not going to take my seat--right? read more