posted by Mike Madison at 9:08 AM /
Pittsburgh's tiny Latino population is growing slowly. Among many other things, that means that a little searching turns up some additional restaurants worth a try. Last night we visited Cocina Mendoza, a family-run place on Route 88/Library Road in Bethel Park, a few doors down from Bruster's. I have yet to find a Mexican restaurant in the area that can really spice up the flavors of its hot sauces, and Cocina Mendoza is no exception. And the decor is "early strip mall." But service is fun and friendly, the margaritas are tasty, the price is right, it's family-friendly, and the food -- not just burritos, enchiladas, and beans -- is worth a return trip. If there were a Pittsburgh-only ChowHound board, this restaurant would belong there. Be sure to stay for dessert, and get the flan!
While I'm on the subject of Mexican food, do *not* go to "Amigos," the latest dreadful restaurant to occupy the cursed space in the Galleria just below the excellent China Gate. And do go to Azul, in Leetsdale. Leetsdale is not as convenient at Bethel Park, but the food is even better, and the decor is charming.
While I'm on the subject of Mexican food, do *not* go to "Amigos," the latest dreadful restaurant to occupy the cursed space in the Galleria just below the excellent China Gate. And do go to Azul, in Leetsdale. Leetsdale is not as convenient at Bethel Park, but the food is even better, and the decor is charming.
Labels: restaurants
4 Comments:
Mike,
I agree with you about Mendoza, while not the best it is very good for this area. We went to Amigos once and will not go again. The best authentic Mexican is at Mexico City on Wood St in downtown. It is not a huge place so it gets packed during the lunch hour but I highly recommenced it. If you go be sure to try the made to order guacamole along with the enchiladas.
Mike -- what's wrong with Amigo's? I've heard nothing but good things about the place.
Like Chris Schultz, we went to Amigos once and won't go back. We had watery drinks and tasteless, out-of-the-can standard suburban Tex-Mex food, which is OK only if you don't expect more. And it had well-intentioned but mediocre service, that is, a crew of mostly high school kids who were working hard but (judging from their performance) who were not well-trained or well-supervised.
If you want inauthentic Tex-Mex in Pittsburgh, stick with Mad Mex. At least the food is fresh and tasty.
I've been meaning to get to Mexico City for a while and now have another reason to go. I'm looking forward to comparing it to Azul.
I agree about Amigo's. Went there once and it was awful. The food was bland and the service was bad.
Anyone ever been to Old Mexico down in Washington? My dad lives in Eighty Four, so sometimes we venture down that way for some good Mexican grub. Not the fanciest place (another strip mall restaurant), but definitely good eats.
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