With the relatively recent outcrop of Mexican-flavored fast food options (Salsarita’s, Moe’s, Chipotle) giving our longtime fast food Mexican restaurants a run for their money (Might Taco, Taco Bell and even The Lone Star), there is no shortage of cheap and quick Mexican-flavored food to be had here in Buffalo.
We also have a handful of casual Mexican-themed restaurants serving up giant platters of cheddar cheese-laden refried beans and taco salads served in deep-fried tortilla bowls. They all seem to use the same Mexican Music 101 soundtrack and the same interior decorator, but the quality of the food varies as greatly as the cleanliness of each restaurant. Despite the lack of authenticity on the menu, people continue to extol the virtues of these businesses to me whenever I lament our lack of traditional south-of-the-border cuisine. Perhaps it’s the drink specials.
Whether you are a lover of the Mexi-Cali-themed fast food franchise, or a frequent visitor to the local cantina boasting the largest frozen margarita (with complimentary chips and salsa), there is an undeniable deficit when it comes to real Mexican offerings in our area. Why is it that traditional Mexican restaurants are not interested in opening here in Buffalo? Is it that the people here wouldn’t understand the food or patronize the business? I somewhat doubt that. There were many people who said the same thing about Buffalo when it came to sushi, or falafel, or kimchi. Now we have a plethora of Japanese and sushi joints, a few falafel options and at least one good Korean restaurant.
I can’t imagine that I am the only Buffalonian in search of a good Oaxacan mole. Or huevos con chorizo. What about pozole or menudo?
So readers, what is it that you’d like to see an authentic Mexican restaurant offer on their menu here in Buffalo? Why do you think the Buffalo area is sadly without such an establishment? Is there anything we could do collectively to change that?
I’m going to thank you for your input in advance and log off now while you talk amongst yourselves. Otherwise I am likely to get started on our lack of traditional Chinese and Spanish offerings, as well.