A Mexican Platter

It's fiesta time!!! I honestly can't believe that I haven't written up a post about my most favorite platter of them all. Now is the time. And, I hope you're super excited because I am laying them all on you at once. As a budding foodie, I try not to discriminate against any type of cuisine. I honestly haven't met many platters I don't like. But, when it comes to true and unconditional love, my heart lies with the Mexican platter.

Mexican food is like home. I go there when I wanna kick back, relax, and not worry about a damn thing. Much like family, I often take it for granted, thinking that there will always be a chicken burrito or quesadilla around when I need one. If you keep up with my blog then you know that I love dining with my favorite little bro, Michael, but I must say that my mom and dad make excellent dining companions as well. They're always game for a margarita or two (actually mom prefers white zin) but regardless of the drink choice, the Holladay family loves a  Mexican platter.

Our Holladay go-to platter is the Texas Fajitas at Fiesta Time  The order for two is so big that it actually feeds three of us easily with occasional leftovers. Shrimp, steak, and chicken with onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers create a glorious union. Throw in the divine queso, sour cream and guacamole, and you have yourself a little taste of heaven. Throw in a few margaritas and you might be headed in the other direction... Let's hope not! Fiesta Time is cozy little spot in the East End of Louisville that is always bright, bustling, and filled with families. Beware there is almost always a wait on Friday and Saturday nights but that's a good thing, because it means great food.

The Holladay's second choice is El Nopal. Similiar to Fiesta, El Nopal is very inviting with great service. The two things that make it stand apart for me is the live music (which mom also loves) and the delicious chicken Floutas. Floutas are long tortillas stuffed with meat and cheese, and should I dare mention that they're deep fried!?! These babies are rich like a sugar daddy and that's why I love them. Another thing about this place is that its everywhere in Louisville. Its like being a Louisville native, you can't go anywhere in town without seeing a familiar face... you can't go anywhere in town without seeing an El Nopal.

Next up is Los Aztecas Honestly I think I've frequented this spot more than any considering my VIP status. Yup, that's right, I've got the members only jacket here. Unfortunately my 15% discount doesn't apply to alcohol, however it does apply to food at all locations around town. Normally I make it easy and go for a simple chicken quesadilla or I share the delicious fajitas with a friend. But when I really wanna shake it up, I order the Enchiladas de Mole. The mole sauce is dark and thick. With hints of chocolate, chili pepper, and clove, this sauce makes the meal and hits the spot every time.

I have mixed feelings about the Sol Aztecas in Louisville. I really love the Frankfort Avenue location. I think the chef there is fond of garlic and that is more than fine by me. My platter of choice is usually the Shrimp Quesadilla which is always bubbling hot with loads of cheese. I have often gushed over the chicken Fajita Nachos as well.  As for the other locations in town, Bardstown Road and Main Street have treated me well. However, I am not a fan of Fourth Street. The food and service miss the mark for my Mexican expectations. 

I wish I could shed some light on Ernestos but I haven't been there in almost a decade. And I would love to tell you about El Mundo but if you've ever been there, you know that it's in a special league of its own and I think it deserves its own post in the future. I've been told that La Rosita and Lolitas are great ones too and I have added them to my endless list of places to dine...

Mexican food is like family. We often take it for granted and don't give it the love it deserves. So grab your family and take them out for a Mexican platter tonight. And as always, you better live to eat!