For those of you Mexican food fans who were sad to see La Katrina Tacos close its shutters, don’t despair: Jorge and Adriana Hernandez have opened HACIENDA LAS FLORES in the old space. They gave the brick building a much needed facelift inside and out. The cheery yellow and blue exterior is eye-catching, and the bright color theme continues inside with decorative flags and hot pink walls.
“We did everything ourselves,” Jorge says. “My wife painted. I’m in the kitchen. My brother and friends help.”
The fiesta atmosphere and warm, welcoming smiles will make you feel right at home. Along with the standard basket of chips, you’ll get four different dips: spicy and mild red salsas; a crunchy, fresh cabbage pico de gallo; and a bean dip. You might be tempted to make a meal out of the chips and complimentary dips, but you’ll want to save some room for Jorge’s cooking. The dishes are fresh and flavorful with just the right amount of spice, and the portions are generous.
The extensive menu contains favorites like burritos, fajitas and enchiladas as well as Mexican soups, salads and huevos rancheros ($9) in case you missed breakfast. The Pollo de Mole ($12.25) features tender chicken and Jorge’s own mole sauce — a mildly spicy, smoky version with peanut butter. I was skeptical about the peanut butter, but the dish was the favorite at our table.
The spinach enchiladas ($10.50) are filled with quickly sautéed spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms and onions giving the dish a fresh, light twist. The Verde Burrito ($9.50) combines peppery, tender pork with beans and rice topped with green salsa.
The kids’ menu, crayons and special drink cups were a hit with my 4-year-old. The family-friendly atmosphere and 99-cent kids’ meals on Sundays make it a great choice for an affordable dinner out.
Judging by the steady stream of customers, I’m not the only one happy to see another Mexican restaurant in town.
— KIRSTEN HARRINGTON
Hacienda Las Flores, 510 S. Freya St., is open daily 11 am-9 pm. Call 315-8853.
No comments:
Post a Comment