Last week, I met up with my friend Brooke in her new neighborhood of Fairmount to try a Mexican restaurant I have heard tons about. La Calaca Feliz (2321 Fairmount Avenue) is a contemporary Mexican restaurant based on bold, traditional flavors. They also have a location in the burbs called Cantina Feliz (Fort Washington) that my friend Tara had been raving about, so off we went.
We dined on a Wednesday around 7:00 & street parking was tough. We ended up in a lot right next door. The atmosphere of La Calaca Feliz was fabulous. To get to our table, we walked through the crowded bar & past the busy kitchen area. The tables were cozy and our spot looked out to their outside seating area, which seemed like it would be fun if it was not 100 degrees out. We started off with two refreshing margaritas and perused the menu.
For an appetizer, we ordered the “Nachos de la Casa” (black beans, queso, arbol chile, pickled jalapenos, radish), and of course, added shortribs. Naturally. The nachos were delicious, and actually my favorite part of our meal. Off to a good start!
The #1 thing Brooke & I had heard was a must try at La Calaca Feliz was this little corn on the cob number. We each ordered the “Elotes Loco” (lime mayo, queso fresco, chile pequin) and were seriously impressed. If you haven’t had anything like this before, it is definitely a must try. Fresh, yummy & unique.
By the time we got to our entrees, we were both a little stuffed. Brooke ordered the “Crispy Cauliflower Taco” (nopales, guajillo salsa, guacamole) and really enjoyed them.
I tried the “Enchilada con Mariscos” (crab, shrimp, chipotle cream, salsaranchera), which was just as good reheated the next day at lunch. Talk about lunchbox envy!
Overall, I loved the place! Dinner was reasonably priced and everything was delicious. You all know I am on a never-ending quest to find amazing Mexican food in the city, and I think La Calaca Feliz has been added to my list! Tell me: where is your favorite place to grab nachos & margs in Philly? xx
