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Why Did You Eat That: Mamacita

By |August 25th, 2011|San Francisco (The Bay), Why Did You Eat That?|

I know I give San Francisco a bad rap, but I guess it’s not all bad. The do have delightful Mexican food, afterall (and I love some good Mexican food). A friend suggested we try out Mamacita in the Marina, so we obliged and were happy we did so. The place is a bit crowded on a weekend and you will probably have to wait if you don’t have a reservation. So, you’re probably going to want to go ahead and get the party started with a pitcher of pomegranate margaritas (made with pomegranate infused tequila) and a bit of the guacamole while you wait for a table. I’ve had a lot of good guacamole in my day, but never have I had any so creamy. I would love to know what they put in there to get that smooth consistency. So far, so good.

We actually didn’t have to wait as long as we’d thought and started things off with Tamales de Elote (sweet corn tamales) and Crudo de Atun (tuna tartar). Both were out. of. this. world. After gorging ourselves on appetizers , we each opted to try a different type of taco- Chuleta de Borrego (lamb), Callos de Mula (scallops), and Carnitas Cerditas (pulled pork). I would say I was the “loser” of the bunch with the pork tacos. They weren’t awful, but compared to the rest, they fell a bit flat. The word that kept coming up when testing out the other tacos was “smooth.” We were so happy with our meals that we had no room for dessert and I would absolutely head back here for my next taco fix.

So what does one wear when munching on Mexican in the Marina? This area is a bit “preppy” or maybe even “yuppy” so, most of the patrons were pretty conservatively dressed. But when’s the last time you felt the need to fit in? Keep it casual with a bit of a twist with a silky blouse, skinny jeans, and funky accessories. You’ll stand out without looking like a total outcast.


1. Ya Ya Fisher Nom De Plume Blouse, $69, 2. 7 For All Mankind Gwenevere Mid-Rise Skinny Jeans, $170, 3. Jimmy Choo Peep Toe Patent Platform Pump, $695, 4. House of Harlow Val Studded Clutch, $195, 5. Kendra Scott Nasha Necklace, $145

Bonita mamacita!

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did You Eat That: Barrio Chino

By |March 7th, 2009|Guest Blogger, New York, Why Did You Eat That?|

She may be new to New York, but Miss Scene It is always able to find the real hidden gems.  She found me the perfect spot for my birthday dinner (I’ll let her tell you about that one) and always discovers fun new places to try.  Unlike me, she’s not a neighborhood snob and can be found gallivanting all over the city from the Upper East Side to Tribeca.

She’s like the modern day Christopher Columbus, sometimes stumbling upon  foreign lands on a whim.  However, she does keep some of her secret hide outs secret (good thing I’m her friend!).  Ladies and gentlemen, Miss  Scene It!!!

Even though I’m still rather new to the city, one thing I know for sure is a great place to eat. I may actually be the small 30% of girls who eat in this city. My love for Mexican food runs deep and I could probably eat it everyday for the rest of my life (sometimes I wonder if my mom didn’t have a torrid love affair with a man named Juan Carlo). So if you are looking for great atmosphere, great drinks and food, and relatively cheap eats, this is for you. I’m a little nervous to share it with you because it is my go to spot and I don’t want to increase the wait for my table. But I’m feeling generous so here goes…

Barrio Chino on the LES is a small dig with no sign on the door; you’ll know it by the Chinese lanterns hanging inside. They don’t take reservations so I suggest catching a spot early because they are always packed. Their margaritas are to die for, but beware those little guys are strong! I’m a fan of the elderflower margarita or if you are feeling a little sassy, go for the jalapeno grapefruit. Don’t say I didn’t warn you though, that sucker is spicy!

On to my favorite part, the food. Always start with the guacamole and fresh chips. I usually order the same thing on the menu and I’m kinda in love- the chorizo quesadilla. I am a girl who rarely eats red meat or anything besides fish but it combines the perfect combo of cheese and spice. Also, try the enchiladas verdes or the bistek a la casa (for all you manly  men).

You won’t walk away hungry or with a hole in your pocket. At times they are a little short on staff so service can become a bit slow (not optimal for a “quick” meal). Don’t be surprised when you become a regular after one visit.  I’ll save you a seat at the bar!

xx,

SceneIt

Barrio Chino

253 Broome Street (b/t Orchard and Ludlow)

212-228-6710

www.barriochinonyc.com