Los Carnales Mexican Restaurant

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You may not realize it at first glance. Sdining experience making the rounds, trying out the various eateries, many with their blend of spices, seasonings, textures, flavors, and cooking styles.

I enjoyed my visits to Maddy’s Mexican Restaurant and was sorry to hear they closed their doors late last year. I always hate to see these wonderful little family-owned shops move on, and I was hoping not to see an empty storefront at the location. Those concerns were quickly assuaged when I saw that another Mexican restaurant, Los Carnales, was taking over the location. I enjoy Mexican cuisine, and I always thought that the previous restaurant offered some tasty dishes, so I figured it was time to stop in and check out the new kid in town.

We were greeted by our very friendly server and hostess, Carla, who offered us the seating of our choice. The small, cozy, warm interior is set up with approximately ten tables, comfortably spaced throughout the dining area so as not to feel crowded. Colorful plastic tablecloths cover the tables, and the black leather cushioned wooden chairs provide that rustic look common to Mexican restaurants.

The room is comfortably lit by the large storefront window, which is enough to allow you to enjoy the food and ambiance. Low Mexican music plays in the background. The décor throughout the restaurant is relatively simple yet appropriate to this venue. Brick wall accents, bright and colorful native American/Latin murals, assorted festive Mexican artifacts, and artwork adorn the walls. Altogether creating an appealing, bold, and cohesive color scheme that sets the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.

On their website, Los Carnales boasts that they offer “Authentic Mexican food, in addition to their unique twist on classic meals. Hearty Mexican and American specialties in an easygoing, BYOB space with festive décor.” After my visit, I must agree that they live up to their statement. I enjoyed the casual, comfortable atmosphere and friendly and efficient service. I found the food very tasty, well-prepared, expertly seasoned (spicy, as I like it, but not too spicy), beautifully presented, generously sized, and reasonably priced.

My friend and I started with a couple of shared appetizers. The extensive menu has many tantalizing selections, but we settled on the Nachos and Nopales con Chorizo. The Nachos (freshly made crispy corn tortillas mixed with melted cheese, Mexican sour cream, pico de galo, lettuce, guacamole, jalapeno & black beans) were a very large serving, delicious, and quickly devoured. Bowls of fresh Salsa Roja and Salsa Verde for dipping accompanied the nachos. Our other appetizer was the Nopales con Chorizo (roasted cactus mixed with Mexican sausage). Absolutely

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