Want some Mexican food for lunch or dinner on the cheap?
NOT FOUND: sol tequila.jpgCheck out Sol Tequila - the no frills spot off of Elkhorn Blvd and Andrea next door to Palace One Chinese. Whether you’re looking to stay local for dining out or looking for a Mexican place that has enough room to seat your whole family, Sol Tequila is the spot! It’s an older building but there are tables and booths that give you room to eat together rather than rush through the drive in window.
There are items under the category of “Tex-Mex” or “Baja” cuisine here - it’s the traditional refried beans and rice on the side, with the ooey, gooey cheese. My first test of a decent restaurant is in their service. The second is in what they bring to the table BEFORE the meal! Most times it’s the water and the bread basket, and in this case it’s the chips and salsa! The salsa passed the test -- slightly spicy, it kind of hits you a little later - (for those who enjoy eating habaneros raw for the fun of it, you’re not going to think this is hot at all) it’s great for the general chips and salsa eating crowd with a fresh and flavorful appetizer. Our waiter’s name was Luis and he was very nice, friendly and accommodating so be sure to tell him hello when you stop in, he’ll take good care of you.
We ordered the traditional drinks of Horchata and Jamaica. (if you know all about these drinks go ahead to the next paragraph, I‘m about to describe them in detail) For those of you less familiar with these beverages, here is a little schooling - Horchata is a drink made from rice, water and often cream or milk; Jamaica is a red drink made from hibiscus blossoms. Both are very sweet so you want to A) watch out when Luis offers you a refill, if you plan on leaving ANY room for dessert, and B) order a glass of water with a lemon just so you have something else to drink when you order. Just a heads up - neither are made from scratch but are from the Jarrito’s brand. I was a bit disappointed that there weren’t home made versions but they were still very, very good!
A friend accompanied me for this “south of the border” adventure. She enjoyed the shrimp fajitas - simple and sizzling - and accompanied with a choice of corn or flour tortillas. Another winner on the menu was the carnitas burrito. There is a choice between a burrito, and a super burrito I believe so make sure to ask for the “fancier” option! It may cost a little more but it’s worth it!
Sol Tequila has at least three items on the dessert menu, I didn’t try any of them but flan was indeed one of them. I also feel the need to remind you to take some of the yummy salsa to go whenever you do dine in because it’s great the next day on eggs, tacos, whatever! Oh, and I must not forget to tell you they are closed on Tuesdays, so maybe go for Italian that day!
If you’re in the area and need to pick it up for take out - call ahead and remember to tell them the North Sacramento News sent you!
And don’t just take my word for it, check out what the food looks like on line at www.northsacnews.com