Bites Nearby: Tito's Cantina Mexican Grill

Internet sources tell me that there are three major types of ethnic cuisines that have been accepted into mainstream American culture. Nine out of 10 Americans are familiar and have tried these foods, with half of them eating these on a regular basis. Curious what they are? Italian, Mexican, and Chinese are the winners - our region has a heavy dose of Italian cuisine. My guess is that Chinese is probably the next most prevalent, with Mexican being an easy third. Today's review shifts from the most popular to the least, with being the restaurant under fire this week. 

Personally, I rank Italian as my favorite of the three. But I enjoy Mexican because I perceive it to be a healthier option than Chinese, and many other fast food options. I have a soft spot in my heart for Taco Bell, but it's a far cry from traditional, and doesn't exactly require a write-up to bring attention to it.  Tito's on the other hand is just a little over a half-mile from the Commerce Way shopping center on Fall River Ave, but lies outside of the general path for someone coming to the area for some shopping, and therefore is easily overlooked.   

Tito's has a nice location and upon walking in, one gets a view of some traditional Americanized Mexican décor, corrugated steel, neon signs for Mexican beers, and a bright mix of colors. There is a large bar space on one side with a comfortable mix of tables and booths on the other side. I've never been to Mexico, so I don't know exactly constitutes authentic atmosphere. My fiance Amy and I took a high top table on the bar side with a good view of the television screens. We got prompt and friendly service (albeit late and on a quiet night). Our waiter doubled as the bartender, and he was very conversational with an informational story about the seasonal liquor license that the restaurant had, and how it minimally impacted margarita selection in their off season from January to April. (He did also mention that the full license is approved and on the way.) A full selection of tequila's and all traditional hard liquors will be available soon to warm the belly, even in those cold winter off-season months. 

A big basket of tortilla chips with salsa was the first thing set down on the table.  My first experience at Tito's was a few years ago, and I don't recall liking the salsa. They're doing something different now, and it was much better than I remembered. The appetizer of choice was Jumping Jacks. These were essentially pepper jack fried cheese sticks, and while still good, they were not the same wedge shaped bites of cheese with a kick that I loved the first time I was there. Amy and I both tried something new. I got a chimichanga, which is essentially a deep fried burrito, and Amy got a selection of enchiladas, which are meat (or cheese) filled tortilla's baked with extra cheese and goodies on top. Our waiter was very polite and accommodating to a couple substitutions, which doesn't go over so well in some places. The substitutions actually came out correct too! Delivery of food was prompt, and presentation was nice. The food was good and filling, and as usual, we had enough to bring home to get me through lunch the next day

We left Tito's with no complaints, and look forward to going back.  The bar area provides a great venue to meet with a friends or co-workers for a margarita fix and catch a game. A couple of our favorites items from previous visits have been the Fajita Burrito and the BBQ Pork Quesidilla. Next time I look forward to trying the Chicken Tortilla Soup.

The visit didn’t break the bank either.  Three people ate entrées, split an appetizer, and a round of drinks came in at about $75 with tax and tip included.  I love Mexican food, and Tito's provides a great option to satisfy the urge in the winter or summer.