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Central Mass Gets Serious About Mexican Cuisine

Tacos from La Terraza

We won’t judge if a fast food franchise was your entry point to the finery of Mexican cuisine. We will, however, suggest that central Massachusetts is full of options whenever you’re ready to graduate to something a little more authentic. Read on if you want to taco ‘bout it.

El patron drenched burrito
El Patron drenched burrito

El Patron

Chilaquiles are traditionally served as a morning dish, but they’re sure to hit the spot anytime of day. At El Patron, the Chilaquiles are prepared with corn tortillas sauteed in red or green sauce tossed with sour cream, cheese and chicken. El Patron is a family owned Mexican restaurant in the heart of the Canal District. We recommend the irresistible drenched burrito.

La Terraza Parilla Mexicana

Tacos al Pastor is a Mexican descendent of shawarma. At La Terraza Parilla Mexicana on Park Ave, this dish is prepared with fresh tortillas stuffed with diced pork, grilled pineapple, cilantro and chopped onions. La Terrazza has entered the central Massachusetts dining scene with a simple philosophy of “integrity.”

Tacos Mexico

Jose Zuniga has been hard at work for over a year, doing his part to revive The Greendale Mall with authentic Mexican cuisine. Taco purists come from near and far to enjoy Zuniga’s Tacos Suave at Tacos Mexico in the food court. We suggest spicing things up with the Pico de Gallo, a raw tomato salsa with freshly diced veggies.

Sol of Mexico

Sol of Mexico is known for their house made tortillas which pop up on the menus of many other Mexican restaurants in the area. As a result, the Tacos and Enchiladas are an obvious choice at this Pleasant Street destination, but we also recommend giving the Tamales a try. Corn dough is mixed with broccoli, zucchini, carrot, cilantro, bell pepper, jalapeno, and chayote then topped with sour cream, lettuce, and green or red sauce for a sumptuous bite.

Hacienda Don Juan

Hacienda Don Juan on Main Street is known for their Salvadorian Pupusas, but they also cook up a traditional Mexican Cochinita Pibil that is not to be missed. For this dish, slow roasted pork is marinated in orange juice then served over rice, beans and tortillas. And, don’t forget to order the flan.

Tacos Mexico
Tacos Mexico

Plaza Azteca
Plaza Azteca on Lincoln Street offers tableside guacamole service. Pay close attention if you’re hoping to replicate the process at home. Your personal guacamole guide promises to give new life to avocado, jalapeno, tomato, onion, lime, and cilantro before your very eyes—don’t take our word for it, Worcester Foodies was joined by MassLive to enjoy a #TacoTuesday.

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Mac and Cheese from Corner Grille

Mac and Cheese from Corner Grille on Pleasant Street in Worcester, MA

Mac and Cheese from Corner Grille on Pleasant Street in Worcester, MA

Well, what can I say. It’s probably one of the best I’ve ever had, and I’m pretty picky and have certain expectations about how it’s prepared. The Corner Grille’s mac and cheese is made with all the things I like: It is thick and rich. Typically, it’s cut as a giant square allowing you to see all the wonderful penne pasta in it—and the bubbly cheese! The top has the crumbs I love and it’s cooked with a patina of golden browns and a bit crispier than the rest. My favorite! The mac and cheese portion is very large. Even if it is typically a side dish, it’s large enough for a meal; which is why I typically share it with my wife (this way I can partake in both pizza and mac and cheese). The best thing about the mac and cheese from Corner Grille is that you can find it in their freezer and not have to special order it. Just walk in, grab one, heat it up at home, get comfy and enjoy a special treat. The best!