Viva Mexico Cantina & Grill

Viva Mexico Cantina & Grill Restaurant Review:

The difference between run-of-the-mill Mexican food and quality south-of-the-border cuisine often comes down to the freshness of ingredients as well as fidelity to authentic preparations. Viva Mexico’s cooking falls somewhere in between. The chicken in our “Burrito Viva Mexico” was surprisingly bland and dry, requiring an infusion of sour cream, whereas the enchiladas de mole covered with a rich chocolate-chile sauce rivaled what we've eaten in real Mexican cantinas. You'll pay $7.50 for the chips and guacamole offered by your waitress when you sit down, but the chips are homemade and come with both red and green salsa as well as bright, fresh guacamole. Order a pitcher of margaritas or a shot from the tequila menu to accompany your meal. The extensive menu also includes vegetarian dishes, seafood, and some intriguing choices like tripe soup, sautéed beef tongue, and barbacoa de chivo (seasoned, shredded goat meat). Flan or fried ice cream make an appropriate ending. Diners can stop by for tasty huevos rancheros, too, since the restaurant is open for breakfast. Service is prompt and pleasant, and in addition to a cheerfully decorated dining room and bar, Viva Mexico has a sunny patio out back.