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El Nopal
Located on a side street in downtown Escondido, you’ll find a quaint family style Mexican restaurant, El Nopal. Folks, with so many Mexican restaurants to choose from today, you’ll be glad you tried this one. The restaurant was opened in 1972. The owner has been in the business nearly all of her life. A local girl with a degree in nutrition. Once or twice a year she introduces a healthy new entrée as a special, if it proves to be popular it finds it’s way onto the menu permanently. The menu is extensive, sporting 27 entrees; in addition there are 29 items that can be ordered a al carte. This is one of those restaurants that even before you order you can sense the food will be good. The chips were brought to our table promptly and were warm and crispy. The accompanying salsa is very tasty, rich and smooth. Try the “Seafood Quesadilla Appetizer”; shrimp and crab blended in a cilantro and jalapeno cream topped with melted jack cheese between 2 grilled whole-wheat tortillas. A delicious starter and a generous portion. Upon tasting the homemade guacamole garnish you know instantly you are in avocado country. If you want to experience authentic Mexican food, order one of their combos. I tried the beef taco, beef enchilada and chile relleno. This food is excellent, I loved their crispy taco made with tender seasoned shredded beef. The enchilada was smothered with a very flavorful sauce, representative of the great food that has their regular customers coming back over and over. I’m told some customers eat there two or three times a week. The side dish of refried beans was just outstanding. Just like the early landmark Mexican restaurants from the fifties, they were topped lightly with cheese and cooked to perfection. Gringos did not cook these beans. They have a full liquor license and serve terrific margaritas, try one if you like tequila poured with “a heavy hand”. Written by Steve Blair, associated with the restaurant industry for 49 years. I hang my hat and reputation on this article. |