Nuevo Laredo Cantina

Nuevo Laredo Cantina Restaurant Review:

This slightly ramshackle building is jammed with culturally rich iconography ranging from photos to ornate crucifixes, the low-ceilinged interior is a riot of color and visual stimulation. Owner Chance Evans drew his inspiration for this place from the Cadillac Bar and other slightly south-of-the-border spots that were founded in the wake of U.S. Prohibition. Despite the rowdy ambience usually associated with such haunts, this one is very family-friendly. Start with some freshly made guacamole or chile con queso. This chunky salsa has just enough heat to be pleasing. Proceed at lunch to savor a round of tacos, or at dinner try chicken with mole poblano, brisket, chiles rellenos and enchiladas. The inexpensive Tampico steak easily satisfies two. Our latest favorite, though, is the barbecued shrimp; a half dozen or more marinated grilled shrimp come with an intriguing house-made sauce for dipping and well-seasoned frijoles refritos, rice, pico de gallo and guacamole. Order the house-made sangría or a margarita, and there are Mexican beers. For something sweet, it's either flan or sopaipilla, and the coffee is quite good. Insider tip: Don't order a main dish until you're finished with your appetizer or you'll find it coming to the table too quickly.