El Vato Tequila and Taco Bar

• Price: $$ $, $$
  Payment Types: All Major Credit Cards
  Attire: Casual
• Features: Takeout
  Serving: Dinner, Lunch
  Alcohol: Full bar
• Reservations: Recommended, Not Necessary
  Parking: Lot Available, Meters

Description

Vato is more of a bar/lounge than dining establishment; the decorative theme is that of a Tijuana dive re-imagined as a backdrop for a music video. The concise menu comprises "primero" offerings (two soups, grilled cheese "chicharron," chipotle cheese dip, and nachos) and a "segundo" section of tacos, flautas, quesadillas, enchiladas, fajitas, and burritos. Diners begin with a basket of thin, crisp tortilla chips and three dips: tomatillo, red chili, and chipotle aioli. Great start, and one that pairs well with a half-dozen Mexican beers ($6),a couple dozen premium tequilas, and five margaritas ($10 to $15), including a potent, well-balanced "classic." Best bet are tacos -- small, soft tortillas (choice of flour or corn) folded around grilled steak or chicken, fresh chunks of mahi-mahi, and/or moist morsels of pulled pork (carnitas). Diced onion, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges are served alongside, which is the way it ought to be.