La Tapatia

La Tapatia 5 stars because the food really showed out! Authentic, flavorful Mexican food, definitely some of the best in Minnesota and felt like it was a hidden gem for sure. We came on a Saturday, at about 4/4:30, before the dinner rush, purposefully. Service: We were warmly greeted after entering their somewhat long hallway. Our server was helpful with the menu when we asked but never smiled. They weren’t busy at this time and I felt like they were attentive. Food: this is where they shine! We loved everything we ordered. We started with Queso Blanco, Guacamole and freshly made chips. Everything was good, particularly the chips. For our main course we ordered tacos and Burrito. The Tacos we ordered (which were all corn) included the Al Pastor (4/5) street style, Chorizo (5/5) Tejano style, Pescado (fried fish- 4/5), Camarones (grilled shrimp 5/5) Tejano style, Burrito was vegetarian (5/5). We also ordeeed a large rice, which was the best Mexican rice we have ever had. We loved all the salsas and tried each of them. The hot was hot but totally still enjoyable. The Salsa verde and Salsa Aguacate (w/avocado) were are favorites and both milder. The only drink menu we were given has beers on it (which neither of us usually do) but we shared a raspberry beer, it was nice. Unfortunately we were too full to try desserts but they looked delicious and I heard they are. Food portions are not large, so you definitely won’t feel like you’re overeating. They have gluten-free options, and vegetarian options so you can find something for almost everyone. Atmosphere: It was warmly decorated with high ceilings. It’s not a large place but I’m sure would accommodate a lot more if it were summer and the patio area was open for sure. It wasn’t loud but then again, we came before a rush. The seating is not the most comfortable, as it’s high tops or diner tables with metal chairs (high top chairs have no backs). It felt like a family/kid friendly area and lots to look at. You go for the food and you will be pleasantly surprised. I definitely recommend and we plan to come back!

If you are a Mexican food lover, this is a place where you will get a chance to try things you would not normally find on the average restaurant menu. The Agua Fresca‘s menu is worth taking a look at, five dollar mixed non-alcohol drinks that are unique and flavor and you won’t find anywhere else. They do not have a liquor license yet, so it is also really nice to be in a restaurant that’s not about margaritas and drinking. It definitely changes the mood to one that is centered around the flavors of the food. They have gluten-free options, and a lot of vegetarian options so you can find some thing in those categories that doesn’t feel like the kitchen is just trying to sync up something - they have a planned menu with planned styles of tacos. Totally kid, friendly, and it’s right size food, so you don’t have to worry about over eating. I had a table of five, we all ordered something different, and we all loved what we got. Plus homemade churros that’s amazing. Outdoor dining is the way to enjoy this restaurant, if the sun is out, you should be here!