It’s not California influence that gave this restaurant its name. When Joshua Morales opened in 1989, he wanted people to know that he served Mexican food, and eight letters for the sign advertising his nine-table eatery was all that Morales could afford. Since then, of course, Mexicali has expanded, even opening a second location in Garland recently. But the neighborhood version remains a cozy restaurant serving consistently good food, and that’s why it’s so popular among neighbors. The menu doesn’t include anything too fancy, instead sticking to fare you would expect at a Mexican or Tex-Mex eatery. One exception to this might be the shrimp cocktail, a tall glass of shrimp doused in a Mexican take on cocktail sauce with cilantro, peppers and onion, and topped with avocado pieces. But overall, staying inside the box is what has made this place a favorite, especially considering the quality — and quantity — customers get for the price. Nothing on the menu costs more than $8.95 (except the fajitas for two), and most of the lunch specials are more-than-reasonably priced at under $5. Combine that with the festive décor, the Latin music and the personal attention the Morales family gives customers, and we can’t think of a better place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
Mexicali
11277 E. Northwest Hwy.
214-341-9405
Five more Cince de Mayo picks
1 FRUIT WITH A TWIST
Try the pomegranate margarita — a blend of lime, pomegranate and tequila over crushed ice. The Mexican entrées feature fresh fish and game, and the guacamole is to die for.
Café San Miguel, 1907 N. Henderson
2 WORTH THE WALK
Walk right up to this stand and order any combination of tacos. They’re tasty, but there’s more on the menu (hence the name), such as a fantastic spicy pork sandwich called Torta al Pastor.
Tacos Y Mas, 5419 Ross
3 DEL NORTE
Dig into the Tostada Siberia, a dish hailing from northern that features a large tostada with chicken, sour cream and guacamole.
Monterrey Restaurant, 1611 Greenville
4 NO PLACE LIKE HOMESTYLE
Authentic Mexican tacos for a buck are hard to beat, not to mention filling. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, skip the taco window and find a table near the live Latin music.
La Parrillada, 7260 Gaston
5 FOR STARTERS
Some declare the chili relleno to be the best in town, but before you even think about entrées, order the Bob Armstrong dip: ground beef and guacamole smothered in queso.
Matt’s Rancho Martinez, 6332 La Vista
