Tasty Treats in Texas

Ah, a cuisine I know well. Thankfully, I have very understanding parents when it comes to my obsession with food. As soon as they picked me up from the airport a few weeks ago, we went straight to Pappasitos (yes, it's a chain but a darned-good one!) for a plato fiesta - a must-have for the homesick Texan. Their best fajitas with their famous ribs and jalapeno-stuffed grilled shrimp with all the fixings (served family-style)! Charro beans, guacamole, arroz, tortillas, híjole!

But my favorite place to visit in all of Texas?? La Fogata - though it's the favorite Mexican restaurant of many celebrities (including Gov Rick Perry), I gotta say this restaurant has been a favorite de mi familia por as long as I can remember.  Queso fundido (I often crave this) & guacamole con tequila are a must, but the entrees and margaritas are also where it's at: the best margaritas, anywhere- I will bet you on this! Our favorite entrees are pechuga poblano (grilled chicken with a creamy poblano sauce- my favorite), chicken mole (spicy and perfect), y el chile relleno (!).

Favorite dish of all-time!

Also, I have to mention Malaga in Austin. Everything served is tapas style (small plates). They have an aged serrano ham served with manchego cheese (cold-cuts) that is always a favorite. Also their fried goat cheese is covered with honey and served with reduced sweet onions, classy and yummy. Just about everything here is great; especially anything that goes on the grille. Order the Sangria or Mexican Margarita for a good time. Came here a few weeks ago with bestie Victoria.

So if it looks like I ate nothing but Mexican food on my recent trip to Texas, that's because it's true :-) I did have some barbecue, but I'll save that for another entry.