Photo: c/o Valencia LuncheriaAlthough my husband and I had done several drive-bys, we dismissed Valencia Luncheria as a divey lunch spot, not worthy of the much-anticipated weekly date night… oh how I regret not getting there sooner.
Stepping into Valencia is like wandering off the beach to grab a bite in a small Latin American, seaside town. In fact, Chef Michael Young (of Habana and Ocean Drive fame in SONO), has dubbed his cuisine “Venezuelan beach food”, and this 16-seat restaurant with its mango-colored walls, heaping plantains, and chalkboard menu listing today’s arepas and empanadas, is a slice of Latin heaven.
This California girl has a hard time finding authentic Mexican food on the East Coast that either 1) doesn’t come smothered in a cheesy sauce or 2) tries too hard on the “gourmet” front.But thankfully, there’s Tacos Mexico.Reminiscent of a classic taqueria in San Francisco’s Mission District, this family-run former hole in the wall on the fringe of East Norwalk has expanded its digs to include table service, yet you still feel like Mama and crew are in the kitchen cooking for you.With nothing over $16 on the menu (and many items under $10), the portions are heaping and the fare is tasty and fresh, with a bit of kick to many of the dishes. All this makes Tacos Mexico an exceptional value and a great find.
Photo: c/o Valencia LuncheriaAlthough my husband and I had done several drive-bys, we dismissed Valencia Luncheria as a divey lunch spot, not worthy of the much-anticipated weekly date night… oh how I regret not getting there sooner.
