Con Eats: Muy Bueno Mexican in Marlborough
(Ed. note: This is the first of an occasional ongoing series of reviews of restaurants nearby conventions, written by Jen-Jen Noodle Bowl.)
What are usually our choices when grabbing food at conventions? Unimaginative pub appetizers, typical convention hall chicken tenders and fries or at most, the occasional sit-down restaurant resulting in leftovers we don’t want to lug back with us. In an effort to make a preemptive strike, Nerd Caliber Editor in Chief Rodney Brown and I ventured to Taqueria La Tapatia in search of a well-rounded local eating establishment for people attending Super Megafest Comic Con this weekend. This hidden gem offers amazing authentic Mexican food where con-goers can get more flavor and bang for their buck than the typical con choices.
Super Megafest, a traditionally Autumn-based con, is holding its first Spring event this weekend on April 18 and 19 in Marlborough, Mass. Taking place in a different hotel from its Fall event, The Best Western Royal Plaza Trade Center, some guests will find themselves unfamiliar with local eatery options. Only a 5 minute drive from the convention center and with plenty of on/off street parking, Taqueria La Tapatia has the vibrancy of any Mexican restaurant coupled with a calm atmosphere that won’t be found at other jam-packed local places. From the moment you walk in to the surprisingly small restaurant and become surrounded by bold murals painted on the walls, you’ll be inspired to indulge in the authentic Mexican drinks and dishes.
With a menu that could dance circles around other everyday Tex-Mex restaurant menus, guests can select fresh and made-to-order items at extremely affordable prices. Even familiar burritos or tacos can be filled bold ingredients such as marinated pork loin, Mexican sausage, tripe or beef tongue if you’re adventurous enough! A handy glossary at the end of the menu will help those who want to explore all their options for entrees and sides, but may not be familiar with the Spanish words for foods or ingredients. Other recognizable dishes include tostados, nachos and quesadillas; though I strongly urge anyone going to read entirely through the menu and try something they haven’t tried before. Taqueria La Tapatia even serves specials on Saturdays and Sundays which will be perfect to consider this upcoming weekend.
Tortilla chips and fresh salsa made daily accompanied the lime Mexican soda Rodney ordered and the strawberry batidas, or milk shake, I ordered. For lunch, Rodney had a burrito that was nearly the size of the plate it came on filled with marinated pork loin, refried beans and Mexican rice. I had the Filete de Pescado which is talapia lightly battered and fried, served with Mexican rice and a small salad. The fresh, not frozen, talapia was simply exquisite and that perfect type of “fresh” dish I always end up craving after a long day of walking the convention floor. No dessert for us, but if you save room, they have sweet options like flan, churros and crepas con cajeta which are crepes with caramel and ice cream.
The small bar at the back of the restaurant is perfect for that post-con group outing for a few beers or glass of wine while also serving up a fun variety of Mexican brand soft drinks for whoever gets the privilege of being designated driver. This can either make for a great break before heading back for Round 2 on Sunday at the convention, or if you’re leaving all together. They close at 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday so be mindful if you plan on making a night of it.
Easy to get to no matter what direction you’re coming from or going to, Taqueria La Tapatia is a great “south of the border” type restaurant to refuel, replenish and get your levels back either during Super Megafest or on your way home afterwards. When your feet are sore from walking, voice is hoarse from yelling or your head is pounding from drinking, mix things up by trying something new and better than a cliché drive-through or chain restaurant. The seating may only house around 20-25 people, but any who make a point to stop into this Google 4.5 star-rated gem will be thankful they did.
Taqueria La Tapatia
460 Lincoln Street Marlborough, MA 01752
508-624-7005
