Sunday, March 15, 2015

A Mexican Winner (in a Strip Mall!): Tocalo Cantina, Garden City, NY

You know you're officially a Long Islander when you are excited about dining in a strip mall. And before you start questioning my sanity, note that Tocolo Cantina in the Gallery at Westbury Plaza is no ordinary strip mall establishment. Prior to establsihing his Long Island prowess, Alexis Samayoa the chef worked at some extraordinary New York City eateries including WD-50 under the tutelage of Wylie Dufresne and Alex Stupak of Empellon Cucina.  So I was expecting great things from this new Mexican restaurant in Garden City.

When you enter the soaring space bathed in turquoise you forget that you are sandwiched between the Container Store and the Sports Authority Elite. Our group came for the $15 two-course lunch. A steal in any locale. Course 1 offers a variety of guacamoles and salsas with homemade corn chips. (Note: lots of choices for Gluten-free diners) Guacamole is brightly flavored with just the right amount of lime. A mango version offers a more fruity approach. An ear of Mexican street corn or ceviche are also on offer.

Course two gives more options - tacos, salads or tortas. Tacos, at two to an order, are on the smallish side. The fish tacos, fried "Baja style" are the fan favorite, though the pork belly pack the biggest flavor. Speaking of packing, the tortas are huge Mexican sandwiches. Just massive, especially compared to the tacos. 

Don't count out the salads, a kale, quinoa and queso fresco with an agave dressing was lighter in calories but still up there in taste. 

And the best surprise was a complimentary shot of Mexican hot chocolate for all members of our party. Wow - what a combination of flavors - nutmeg, cinnamon, hot pepper - yum. 

And that was just lunch. Dinner offers bigger choices like paella, fideo and enchiladas. And don't forget drinks - this could be the next big spot for happy hour - margarita, sangria, you name it.

The New York Times thinks it's excellent and so do I. 

Save some room for shopping. 

Until our next Burger,
KLB

Tocolo Cantina 
920 Old Country Road
Garden City, NY
516.222.0060
tocolocantina.com




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