Perhaps it’s too many mornings waking up to drizzle that enticed our Notable minds to wander south of the border dreaming of sun, sand and surf in Mexico. Unfortunately, for some hard-working YPs, vacation time isn’t in the mix just now so we’ll have to look around YVR for a latino-flavoured fix.
If you’re in the mood for a taste of Mexico in Vancouver, one thing is certain: you don’t have to search very hard. Whether it’s street-side tacos loaded with all the fixings, or a more casual Cantina-style setting, our research reveals a plethora of spots around town to hang your sombrero.
Off the Wagon is one of our go-to stops when searching for a quick, healthy and fresh taco fix downtown. This taco truck treks around town with a varied menu of offerings. We love their selection of homemade fire-roasted salsa, fresh ingredients, avocado sauce and gluten-free options. On our must-try list: black bean and roasted yam tacos – Olé!
TacoFino is another Mexican-minded option for those craving a healthy, Baja-style feast on-the-go. Long a hit amongst Tofino’s surf-riding community, TacoFino has all but taken over the streets of Vancouver with their fresh take on sustainable, tummy-filling goodness that causes midnight cravings. We love how they’ve embraced traditional Mexican cuisine and added their own twist; try their tasty Tuna Ta, tacos seared with sesame-soy albacore tuna, shredded cabbage, mango salsa and a wasabi-ginger mayonnaise. With two trucks roving the city, Vancouverites can look for TacoFino to set up a permanent dine-in stop soon. Rumor has it they’ve signed a lease for an East Hastings space…details to come.
Another spot for great Mexican-inspired cuisine we head to when the craving hits is Lolita’s on Davie Street. This cozy little Cantina calls to mind those authentic, beach-side spots you’d expect to find in Sayulita. Packed with the perfect mix of ambiance and lively clientele, it’s clearly a local favourite. We love their carefully crafted menu of Mexican eats complete with traditional and not-so-traditional items we crave. For starters, their plantano chips served with a fresh creama dipping sauce always hits the spot, as does their freshly-made ceviche, enchiladas verduras and tacos done six ways. Wash it all down with an icy cold Corona or Margarita and you’ll feel utterly satiated.
La Taqueria is another spot worth noting. With a tight menu, daily specials and plenty of offerings to suit both vegetarian and carnivorous hankerings, we can hardly stay away. With two locations around town (W. Hastings and Cambie), La Taqueria offers an authentic ‘pinche’ (or street-style) taste of popular Mexican eats. Always a must: Al Pastor, the perfectly marinated pork delectably done with an achiote chilli and sweet pineapple, and their rajas con creama.
Last, but not least is a long-time favourite we just had to add to our list: Las Margaritia’s. This spot is always a good bet to find yourself at if you’re looking for quality Mexican cuisine. Located in the heart of Kitsilano, we’ve found ourselves lingering on their street-side patio over pitchers of Margaritas more times than we ought to admit and it’s always packed. Patio-dreaming aside, this is the perfect spot for dinner a deux, large parties and impromptu gatherings. Their huge menu has something befitting every appetite with dishes inspired by the cuisine of Northern Mexico and Baja California. Emphasis is on fresh, locally-sourced and homemade ingredients which you’ll taste in every bite. Our current craving: their Enchilada de Sonora washed down with a signature lime Margarita.
Hungry yet?
Photo courtesy Lolita’s
