How To Spot A Top Notch Mexican Restaurant

Mexican food is a favorite among countless people who frequently crave a dish of hot tamales or authentic chicken enchiladas paired with warm chips and fresh guacamole. Being as popular as they are, Mexican restaurants in Las Vegas and around the world go to great lengths to make their restaurant stand out in the crowd. There are restaurants that pride themselves on their authenticity where every dish is created with traditional Mexican recipes and heritage in mind, and there are others yet that cater to more of a Tex-Mex crowd serving American inspired dishes with a nod to the food’s origins.

With so many Mexican restaurants in Las Vegas, and in every other major city for that matter, how do you know when you’re going to be enjoying time well spent at a quality restaurant? There are some key things to look for that will tip you off to what type of place you’re about to spend your money at.

First of all, recognize that there is a definite difference between hole in the wall Mexican restaurants that are tried and true because, outside appearances, they know how to whip up the most delicious burritos in town. There are other places, however, that intend to cater to those who are looking for more of an experience, a dining out pleasure or an impressive date night to sit and eat for an hour or so. These places should probably put more effort into atmosphere than those Mexican restaurants in Las Vegas that are building a reputation on three tostadas for a dollar between noon and six.

Look for quality and care in the overall décor. Even if a place is new and trying to make a name for itself, the carpet should be clean and well cared for. If the carpet looks like it was once red, but is now a dingy brownish red with a dated pattern circa 1965, chances are good that a lot of care is not spent on the details in the kitchen and beyond.

Consider the music that’s being played, and notice if it’s way too loud to be comfortable and hear yourself talk with your fellow guests. Notice the cleanliness of the staff and their willingness to be helpful and friendly. An apathetic staff would suggest less than quality when it comes to food prep which is never a good thing in Mexican restaurants in Las Vegas or Mexican restaurants in Mexico itself. If each table is mismatched in style and color and lights bulbs are burned out, it’s probably best to move on.