cmccool
Jan 28, 03, 4:38 pm
14511-B Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy
Chantilly, VA
703-222-2323
There is a serious dearth of authentic Mexican eateries in Northern Virginia. It is perhaps the thing I miss most about California, since my move here eight years ago. To cure my tortilla Jones (guacamole jones is a better name but I do not like avocados), I head to Picante when possible.
Picante is located in a small shopping plaza about 1 mile west of highway 28 (along highway 50). The restaurant expanded within the past couple of years, providing a testament to its popularity. Bad news is that they took over the space previously occupied by a doughnut shop. Could not beat the experience of getting drunk on doughnut fumes after tumbling out of Picante.
I still can, however, order the spicest dish this side of the Mississippi. Picante's shrimp diablo requires a warning but there are plenty of Mexican beers (I prefer Dos Equis) to help put out the fire. I am sure that the chef lowers the heat for me, since the waiter/owner always gives me that "gringo" look when I order diablo. I say it's OK and he justs shakes his head.
There are other dishes, of course. Fajitas platters are big enough for two to share. The Mexicana sauce is tangy with a slight kick. South of the Border BBQ, I call it. I opt for the steak mexicana over the chicken version. Tamales, soft tacos, and more are available a la carte or in platters.
Bonus, Picante is located fairly close to IAD (Washington Dulles airport), walking distance to a couple of "airport" hotels.
Chantilly, VA
703-222-2323
There is a serious dearth of authentic Mexican eateries in Northern Virginia. It is perhaps the thing I miss most about California, since my move here eight years ago. To cure my tortilla Jones (guacamole jones is a better name but I do not like avocados), I head to Picante when possible.
Picante is located in a small shopping plaza about 1 mile west of highway 28 (along highway 50). The restaurant expanded within the past couple of years, providing a testament to its popularity. Bad news is that they took over the space previously occupied by a doughnut shop. Could not beat the experience of getting drunk on doughnut fumes after tumbling out of Picante.
I still can, however, order the spicest dish this side of the Mississippi. Picante's shrimp diablo requires a warning but there are plenty of Mexican beers (I prefer Dos Equis) to help put out the fire. I am sure that the chef lowers the heat for me, since the waiter/owner always gives me that "gringo" look when I order diablo. I say it's OK and he justs shakes his head.
There are other dishes, of course. Fajitas platters are big enough for two to share. The Mexicana sauce is tangy with a slight kick. South of the Border BBQ, I call it. I opt for the steak mexicana over the chicken version. Tamales, soft tacos, and more are available a la carte or in platters.
Bonus, Picante is located fairly close to IAD (Washington Dulles airport), walking distance to a couple of "airport" hotels.