Tucked into an unassuming Redmond strip mall, Xalisco Latin Cuisine offers much more than meets the eye, transporting diners with its culinary craftsmanship and vibrant flavors. Owned and operated by the Medina family, the restaurant pays tribute to its namesake, offering a menu inspired by the traditional dishes of Mexico’s Xalisco region.
Upon arrival, warm handmade tortillas accompanied by a dark salsa are delivered to our patio table, instead of the usual chips. Both are made fresh in-house each day. The corn tortillas are prepared with cilantro and spinach, giving them a vibrant green hue, while the salsa packs a spicy punch.
As we tear and dip our appetizer, we peruse the extensive menu which offers an array of tempting options, both familiar and novel. The staff is attentive and kind, answering questions and offering up recommendations. Ultimately, I order the Vegan Street Tacos, and my dining partner opts for the Arrachera skirt steak, which our waiter claims is the best item on the menu.
Each dish arrived quickly and was artfully displayed on a wooden platter. My tacos were filled with tender cactus, mushroom, onion, cilantro, avocado and tomato salsa. Across the table, the Arrachara received rave reviews. The skirt steak was supple and served with grilled jalapeño and cactus, chorizo, guacamole, pico de gallo, rice and beans and more tortillas.
Other noteworthy items recommended to us included the fried fish tacos, expertly prepared octopus tacos and the torta ahogada—a sandwich originating from Xalisco with carnitas and beans, soaked in house-made salsa. The full bar offers an extensive selection of libations, including a variety of delightful margarita and mojito options; the jalapeño margarita and raspberry mojito were recommended crowd-pleasers.
3835 SW 21 St., Redmond
541-923-3943
Open daily 11-9 p.m.
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