Taste of Mexico

Ever since I was little, I have been taught that unless you’re Tobey Maguire saving Kirsten Dunst in the rain, nothing good will ever happen to you in an alley. I’ve been told this so many times that I’ve internalized it and now regard all alleys with a mixture of dread and curiosity. So when the sandwich board on the sidewalk directing me to Taste of Mexico insisted I head down the alley next to the Christian Science Reading Room, I immediately felt my hackles rising. Could it be a trap?

My fears were immediately laid to rest by the vibrant little restaurant nestled cozily behind more familiar shops. The facade and outdoor seating area welcome approaching patrons with cheerful, vibrant colors, and everything in the restaurant from the furniture to the food is awash with friendly hues. A mural depicting a sunny beach covers the wall opposite the door, and the waitstaff greet all newcomers with a heartfelt “Thank you for coming!”

My party and I asked to be seated outdoors to better enjoy the lovely weather. We were led to a small round table out front. The menu was basic, with a classic assortment of burritos, nachos, enchiladas and other Mexican dishes, and the prices were more than reasonable. All of the meal plates, including my order of Enchiladas Rojas, went for $10.99, and burritos were in a similar price range. We ordered chicken nachos and guacamole, which we quickly received, along with our complimentary basket of chips and three cups of salsa. The hot salsa in particular earned its name, causing Tanoy Mandal ’14 to exclaim, “Yup, that’s on an Indian level!”

Overall, the food was not extraordinary, but it was good, and it was plentiful. I was stuffed by the time I got through my enchiladas, which is no mean feat. But it’s really the holistic experience of Taste of Mexico that makes it worth the trek. Our server was absolutely hilarious, cracking good-natured jokes at our expense before, during and after the meal. The courses were timed perfectly, allowing us to luxuriate over the meal without ever leaving us wondering when our next course would come. I’d certainly recommend it for a casual dinner out on the cheaper side of things. But be sure to get the horchata, a Mexican cinnamon rice beverage. I didn’t, but I had a sip, and it’s been haunting my dreams ever since.

Taste of Mexico

180 Nassau St.

4 out of 5 paws

Pros: Great atmosphere and service; horchata.