Hola señoritos and señoritas! Hands down Nuevo Laredo Cantina is by far the best Mexican restaurant in Atlanta. Yep, I said it– the best, and obviously I’m not the only one who knows this to be true. They have been voted “Best of Atlanta” by Atlanta Magazine since the first year they opened in 1992. The owner, Chance Evans has a simple formula: serve the best, most fresh, authentic Mexican fare at a reasonable price by an attentive staff in a casual environment.
Nuevo Laredo is located off the beaten path in an industrial park on the west side of town. The décor is simple with red checkerboard tablecloths, pictures of Hollywood stars on the wall and authentic Mexican artifacts and other items the owner collected from his trips to Mexico. If you go during peak hours expect a wait, but you can always pass the time outside on the patio or at the bar with some great margaritas.
I was at Nuevo Laredo last Friday night with my family to celebrate my brother graduating with his Masters in Accounting from Georgia State University–the other ‘GSU’. (For those of you that don’t know, I’m a proud alumni of Grambling State University, the real GSU). Back to the blog…Mexican food is a favorite with my family and being from Texas I grew up eating Tex-Mex along with authentic Mexican food (and yes there is difference). I consider myself a connoisseur of Mexican food so it took me a few years to finally find the best Mexican food in Atlanta. I have to thank my friend Cordell for sharing this jewel with me years ago.
We started our meal with their delicious chips and salsa. And what’s a celebration without margaritas? Our refreshing margaritas coupled with the warm chips and authentic salsa was like a fiesta in our mouth! We bypassed having appetizers because the entree portions are filling and the food comes out fast.
I usually gage a Mexican restaurant based on how they prepare the classic dishes (guacamole, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas etc..), so I ordered one of my favorites, the carne asada and brisket tacos, which are traditionally prepared with lean flavorful meat, fresh cilantro and onions. My sister and brother both kept it simple by ordering the beef tacos and nachos. Mario changed it up and ordered the Chicken Santa Fe. They have a vast number of entrees so your choices are endless. Some of the other popular dishes include: Brisket Barbacoa, Chicken Mole, over-stuffed poblano Chili Rellenos, Lobster Tacos, and Enchiladas. No matter what you choose, you’ll be satisfied.
Make sure you check out Nuevo Laredo if you are looking for authentic, home-cooked Mexican food in a fun casual environment with great service. I promise you won’t be disappointed!
Location
Neighborhood/Area: West Atlanta
1495 Chattahoochee Avenue
Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone: 404.352.9009
www.nuevolaredocantina.com
Photo Credit: Mario Benoit aka Mister Media
I want your feedback and comments. Have you been to Nuevo Laredo Cantina? What is your favorite Mexican food restaurant?