For years, Calgarians craving Mexican eats were simply out of luck. Thankfully, a new generation of restaurants has arrived, displacing cheddar-choked quesadillas with sumptuous moles, tortas and authentic tacos. Here, Calgary’s best Mexican restaurants.
Los Chilitos Taco & Tequila House
Pair signature tacos ($5) with house-brand Tequila Corralejo at this hopping taquería on the 17th Avenue S.W. promenade. Chase it down with the owner’s grandmother’s sweet-and-sour sangrita chaser. Mains, $12.95. 1309 17th Ave S.W., 403-228-5528.
Tu Tierra
Located in an old Chinese restaurant with a terra cotta makeover, Tu Tierra serves killer burritos, like the chile verde, and superior salsa on dishes like sopes – shredded pork, beef and chorizo on cornmeal bread. Mains, $11.50 – $13.50. 8316 Fairmount Drive S.E., 403-252-5566.
Mi Tierra
Sister establishment to Tu Tierra, this colourful, friendly taco hut serves tacos ($3.50), enchiladas, burritos and tostadas with authentic flavours and flair. Mains, $11.50 – $13.50. Bay #30 – 8316 Fairmont Drive S.E., 403-252-5566.
El Sombrero
While the strolling mariachi violinist makes you ache for sultry evenings in Latin locations, enjoy the city’s best pollo con mole – spicy, sweet and damn delicious. Mains, $16.50 – $19. 520 17th Avenue S.W., 403-228-0332.
Julio’s Barrio
Authentic it ain’t, but give this two-storey Mexican party palace its due: the food’s good, if heavy on the Monterey Jack, and the service is relentlessly upbeat. Permission granted to indulge in an oversize burrito and pina colada margarita pitcher. De nada. Mains, $11 – $20. 101 10th Street N.W. 403-203-3066.
Image courtesy of ulterior epicure.
