Lake County has an abundance of Mexican restaurants, and most all of them are wonderful. Everyone we talk to has their favorite, but there’s nothing wrong with trying something new. Of course, there are more than just four great Mexican restaurants in Lake County, but, if you’re looking to try something new and enjoy some great Mexican food, look no further than this list.
La Parrilla in Middletown has a selection of unique, tasty food. If you’re looking for traditional Mexican, you’ll find it here. But if you’re feeling adventurous, give their alambres a try. Your choice of meat comes combined with bacon, peppers, onions, cheese, and salsa, served with warm tortillas. If you can imagine fajitas on steroids, you’ll get an idea. It’s a spectacular meal that makes great breakfast leftovers. Or, if you’re really brave, get their camarones a la diabla (‘devil shrimp’ in Spanish). Yes, they’re spicy, but also mouth-wateringly flavorful. Order your meal, then head out to the patio, where you can enjoy both your food and the spectacular view of Mt. Saint Helena and the Mayacamas mountains.
Betty’s Tacos in Clearlake Oaks has, like its name says, phenomenal tacos. Each is perfectly seasoned, and, when topped with some of their homemade salsa, creates a combination of flavors that tantalizes the tastebuds. And if you love tamales, Betty’s is the place. Their tamales are stuffed full, moist, and topped with chile sauce and cotija cheese. For the best experience, order more than you can eat and take several home for later.
La Chilanguita in Clearlake serves a variety of spectacular Mexican cuisine. For a filling meal, order a huarache (or ‘sandal’ in Spanish). Corn flour is stuffed with beans, shaped into a large oval, fried, and then topped with fresh veggies and handmade salsa. It’s crunchy, chewy, and completely wonderful. For a different experience, and one that can be shared by at least two people, get their molcajete. Served in a sizzling hot rock bowl, it’s a combination of beef, chicken, chorizo, shrimp, jalapenos, cotija cheese, cactus, and more in a spicy red sauce. If you haven’t had it before, you have to try it. And be sure to order a cold Pacifico to wash it down.
Carmelita’s Cocina in Kelseyville is part restaurant, part taqueria, and all tasty. It’s the perfect place to sit down for a meal. But if you’re enjoying your time sipping on a beer at Kelsey Creek Brewing or tasting wine at Fore Family Vineyards, that’s no problem. Don’t worry. Give Carmelita’s a call and they’ll bring your food to you. Their mulitas are a personal favorite–think a souped-up quesadilla. They also serve Super Fries, a bed of french fries topped with beans, meat, cheese, pico de gallo, jalapenos, crema and salsa. It’s a meal and a half, and better than any nachos you’ve had.
