Don’t let the unprepossessing exterior put you off. If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, real Mexican food, this is the place. As the menu says, "This Isn’t Tex-Mex, Amigo." No, it’s not; this is a touch of Puerto Vallarta in the middle of Fredericton. The food here will wake up your mouth, and they have been doing it since 2000. There is a good chance that you’ll be served by Carlos Perez Huerta, who owns it with his wife, which won’t happen down the street at Mexicali Rosa’s, where the Tex-Mex won’t hold a candle to what you’re getting here.
The interior decoration may lead you to believe you’ve walked into a Mexican cantina overlooking the Pacific. The coral-coloured walls are covered with an eclectic collection of Mexican memorabilia and family photographs. The tables are covered with brightly coloured cloths, and there are little sombrero lights hanging above them. It is a bright and welcoming place. The kitchen is in the back and opens to the restaurant. It may not be the prettiest kitchen in the world, but you’ll have to make up your own mind about that.
Service is quick and friendly, and the menu is extensive. I have lunch here every time I’m in town, although they are also open for breakfast and dinner. There is a different lunch special every day: flautas, chimichangas, quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas, and burritos, ranging in price from C$9 to $10. Dinner specials range from C$13 to $18. Menu selections run from salads to nachos, burritos, seafood, and a variety of platters, samplers, and combination plates. There is even a low-carb menu. I tried a beef burrito, which was served with rice and refried beans, and my wife tried a vegetarian quesadilla. Both were excellent, and as I said, you may not be aware of the spices until you’re finished eating, and then you discover that you are really, really happy with what you’ve had. It all goes well with a selection of Mexican beers or a wide variety of specialty drinks, such as margaritas.
Over several visits, I have always walked out completely happy with the experience. I recommend that you try it if you’re in town.