Buffalo doesn't pretend to be a hotbed of Mexican cuisine, and why would it? Many would call Mighty Taco their favorite Mexican joint, and while Mighty will always hold a place in my heart (stomach), often times I get in the mood for some good authentic cuisine. Over the years there have been a splattering of Mexican restaurants pop up in the city, many of which have closed their doors, and now you can count on one hand the number of places that serve south of the border favorites. In the spring of 2013, Don Tequila opened its door in the heart of Allentown in the former space of K Gallagher's. The original location was popular in Orchard Park until a devastating fire ripped through the building in December 2012. Lucky for us owner Sergio Mucino remained determined to open this new location despite the setback.
The building is absolutely beautiful inside with an animated color scheme, and simple yet tasteful Mexican décor. I have been to Don Tequila for both lunch and dinner, and this particular review will focus on the lunch menu. This is the perfect place for lunch with the always attentive staff, and fast service. You could easily place your order, enjoy a great meal, and be out of there in under an hour. The menu features lunch specials with nothing over $8.00 until 3:00pm every day. Don’t let the cheap prices and speedy service scare you off. Every order is made to order with an abundance of fresh vegetables, superbly spiced meats, and a touch of Mexican flare. The restaurant also offers a full bar with a variety of well priced beers and margaritas.
Like most Mexican restaurants, you'll get a chance to snack on fresh made chips and salsa while you wait, and these are bottomless. For my meal I ordered the special burrito stuffed with tender steak, rice, refried beans, and topped with red sauce and sour cream. The burrito was fantastic, fresh, and nothing was oily or greasy. I couldn’t help but get a side of guacamole, and I'm glad I did as this was no canned condiment. It had that bright green color where you know it was just made. My lunch companion ordered one of the $6.99 lunch specials which consisted of a chicken enchilada, beef taco, and rice. The enchilada was pleasing with moist chicken in a steamed corn shell, and the taco complimented the enchilada nicely with its crunchy texture. Both these plates were huge, with plenty to take home for an afternoon snack or light dinner.
Allentown has a real gem in the neighborhood, with a wonderful location to fill the stomach, and wet the whistle during a typical Buffalo happy hour without breaking the bank. The menu is huge, and has some traditional American fare for those who aren't in the Mexican mood. Get your coworkers together and head to Don Tequila for a Mexican fiesta, and I promise you'll go back.
