MEXICAN
FrEsh tortIllAs
Gold: AMANdA’s FoNdA
GAzeTTe PiCK: lA CAsItA pAtIo CAFé
3625 W. Colorado Ave., 227-1975
It was like voters were ticking off the menu as they described why they love this restaurant. “Margaritas, carne asada, molé sauces: Everything was simply the best.” “Consistently good food and service. I always feel like I’m relaxing south of the border with a great margarita and yummy food. Olé!”
306 S. Eighth St., 633-9616; 4295 N. Nevada Ave., 599-7829; 3725 E. Woodmen Road, 5360375; lacasitapatiocafe.com
Pick up a dozen and you’ll be sneaking a bite or two before you get home. No assembly-line machine tortillas here. For over 20 years, La Casita has been serving up the hand-flattened treats hot off the grill.
MEXICAN
Silver: sAlsA BrAvA Bronze: lA CAsItA pAtIo CAFE
tAQUErIA Gold: MoNICA’s tACo shop
30 E. Fillmore St., 473-1996; 5829 Palmer Park Blvd., 597-7022
This modest taqueria draws a loyal following for “the best quick tacos in town.” Silver: El tACo rEy Bronze: lA’AU’s tACo shop
GAzeTTe PiCK: lA CArrEtA
35 Iowa Ave., 477-1157
tAQUErIA
GAzeTTe PiCK: El rANChIto CArNICErIA No. 3 1714 Monterey Road, 630-0150
Don’t be frightened by the gritty exterior. This taqueria, tucked in the back of a Mexican market, has the best authentic tacos and an unmatched salsa bar with fresh toppings and six homemade hot sauces. Don’t miss the birria (stewed goat) tacos.
hIddEN-IN-plAIN-sIGht GEM GAzeTTe PiCK: BIstro dE pINto 26 E. Kiowa St., 473-3538; bistrodepinto.com
Possibly the most consistent fine dining spot in the Pikes Peak region, this tiny bistro specializes in European and Latin American favorites.
16 I BEST OF THE SPRINGS I 2010 I THE GazETTE
Last year’s staff pick triumphs again with across-the-board good eating. The Mexico City-style, familyowned restaurant has huge portions, a festive ambience and friendly staff. It makes this off-the-beaten-path spot a home-cooking winner. Be sure to try the chiles rellenos and the tortilla soup.