(You mean there's good Traditional Mexican food in Kansas City??)
As I moved back this year to my home town, I had a true hankering for some gooooood food! Not just the typical Midwestern fried food (which can also be tasty, don't get me wrong) but the delicious, locally owned restaurants that you almost miss entirely because they look unassuming and blend in with everything else. My mom used to talk about this great Mexican joint called, "Ixtapa", known for it's traditional food and tequila-- not your typical dry-heave-give-you-instant-migraines kind of tequila--but the kind that you only see in Mexico, and the kind that true Mexicans hide under the table when they see an American ask for a margarita. ;)
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| Tequila! |
Whoa! Somehow I derailed from the food. After all of that talk on Tequila, the real point is the food. Sigh... the food. I am in love, maybe obsessed, with good homemade (home grown) food... and this is the place to get the real deal. The owners are from Guadalajara, Mexico and they take pride in the dishes from that region. If you are on a mission for Tex-Mex or a burrito with melted bright orange cheese, than this is not your restaurant (although, if you go tex-mex, please enjoy a sopapilla with honey for me, please! ;). However, if you are looking for a restaurant that serves REAL mexican fare and at affordable prices--then this could be your new favorite spot. :)
I ordered a dish called: "Tacos Rancheros." (picture at top left)
The picture doesn't do them justice. The tenderness and marination of the meat was just divine, and the sauces and extra lime married the flavors perfectly. I put a spoonful of the exquisite homemade beans on the tacos as well, and this just made the perfect bite. Somehow they have the flavors down pat... as if they've been doing this for ages. Oh wait, they have! They have brought over all of their recipes from Jalisco and now we get the opportunity to share in their culture, their food, and their stories. As soon as you walk in, they look you in the eyes and smile; as if they secretly know you. They delight in telling you about their dishes, so PLEASE ask away. They love nothing more than giving their suggestions on foods you might love. Indulge in something new, and don't be afraid to try a dish that might not be something you usually order. This is the point of going somewhere new. If you are truly inspired, maybe have a little sip of tequila as you peruse your menu... and watch the owner's eyes light up. The counter has a host of different tequila's, and he is quite proud to talk about them. (He even let me take a picture!)
My Mother got her usual favorite: "Pollo Isla"--which includes lots of basil, mushrooms, and onions in a delicious buttery sauce.
I look for restaurants that feed my soul and my body!... the true restaurants that inspire you just by walking in and seeing the passion of those that work there. We all know that we have to eat, but we don't always take the time to soak up the good vibes of the food, also. These recipes have history and soul. Sitting in good ol' Kansas City, I was transported to Guadalajara, Mexico with just one bite.
Truly, the stories that were told as I was eating also allowed me to appreciate the work that goes into these dishes, and led me to be extra grateful that we have these types of restaurants right down the road from me. This place is certainly nourishment for the soul, as well as the belly.
Fall in love with this place, it won't be hard. I certainly did... and I plan to fall in love with it many more times.
"IXTAPA" is located in North Kansas City: 7130 NW Barry Rd. Kansas city Missouri, 64153
(don't blink, or you might miss it.)
*Disclaimer: The purpose of this blog is not to promote certain restaurants, but it is purely because I hold great love for the restaurants mentioned, and for good food in general. :)
Stay Inspired and Hungry!
~Christy~
