Upon entering La Parrilla, the first signal that this isn't a run-of-the-mill Mexican chain lies in the decor.
A spacious half-moon bar — it looks like a tidy, gentrified version of a Mexican cantina — sits in the middle of the dining room. Cases of beer and tequila pile behind a locked, ornate metal gate, which looks like a set piece from "El Cid." A man-on-the-moon stained glass design watches as customers devour both typical combination platters and thoughtful house specialties.
SAME, BUT DIFFERENT
Like most Americanized Mexican haunts, the proverbial basket of chips and salsa arrive. Consider springing for the homemade guacamole, which balances the right amount of avocado and lime juice. Several soups offer a change of pace, including a bowl of Power Soup. It's a spicy affair including with shrimp, rice, onions, cilantro, mushrooms, avocado and tortilla strips.CRAVING A COMBO?
The combination platters will soothe easy-to-please fans of the genre. You have the number 19, for instance, with a chalupa, burrito and enchilada cuddling on a warm plate.Can't find the combo you're looking for? La Parrilla has a build-your-own option with sides of rice and beans. Guests choose any two from a list consisting of a burrito, enchilada, taco, chalupa and more.
BREAK THE STANDARD
But those looking to break from routine should go straight to the specialty sections. The smothered shrimp isn't especially complex, but satisfies just the same. Pan-fried shrimp, onions and peppers get a cheese dip blanket and a side of rice. Order a side of tortillas and opt for a generous stuffing.The kitchen doesn't skimp on the 8-ounce mango salmon, although it proves a bit too fishy. Tasty sides of signature chipotle mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus make up for any disappointment.
A sizzling pan holding the Baja fajitas arrives with shrimp and mahi mahi conglomerating with grilled veggies including onions, peppers and cauliflower. It proves to be much less overbearing than the red meat or even chicken fajita options. Other new items join the menu, too, including pickled mahi mahi.
Carnivores salivating for steak might find reward in the steak La Parilla. This grilled, 12-ounce New York strip boasts sauteed mushrooms, grilled tomatoes. It might make a repeat visit's to-do list, along with pork chops doused in chipotle sauce.
• Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays-Wednesdays; 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.Thursdays-Saturdays
• Reservations: No
• Recommended dishes: Guacamole, smothered shrimp, Baja fajitas.
• Prices: Appetizers, soups and salads $2.05-$11.55; entrees $4.75-$13.60.
• Web site: www.laparrilla.com
• Verdict: Typical combination platters and thoughtful house specialties.
