Fanfare...

EL RIO GRANDE

MUCH MORE THAN TACOS

Si, Senor, this is authentic Mexican food. Faithful readers know I like the Fan because of its international flavor and that's especially true when it comes to food.

Whether you want to head to Greece, Italy, or just around the corner, there's always foreign fare to be found. I've found myself heading for Mexico of late, to El Rio Grande.

This is not cookie-cutter Mexican cooking. This is the real enchilada. It's almost as good as another trip south of the border, without a chance of Montezuma's revenge.

I think El Rio Grande is still foreign to many Fan residents. It's very popular with VCU students and those who live in the lower Fan, but the word is just spreading to the west (hopefully not as far as the West End).

The atmosphere in El Rio Grande is open and festive. The booths and tables are large and comfortable and the air is filled with good smells and lots of conversation. You'll also hear much Spanish being spoken, a language I really want to learn.

The menu is quite extensive and serves as a great introduction to Mexican fare. I always start with a Mexican beer or two. They have Bohemia, Carta Blanca, Chihuahua, Corona, Corona Light, Dos Equis, Dos Equis Light, Pacifico, Simpatico, Sol, and Tecate, as well as many domestic choices (but when in Mexico, do as the Mexicans). Their margaritas by the pitcher are a tasty treat. Make sure to ask about the happy hour specials.

I almost forgot to mention the delectable warm chips and salsa they bring to your table (the first serving is free). I love looking at the menu over chips, salsa, and a cold beer.

When I start perusing the long menu, I still find myself referring to the helpful written description of Mexican dishes they provide (the staff is also great with explanations). I typically go for one of the combination platters, which give me a chance to try a variety of Mexican dishes.

The especialidad El Rio Grande are also great. I particularly like the Special Dinner for Two, their burritos, the quesadillas, and any of the fajitas dishes. Most of the meals come with a large serving of rice and beans.

Here's a shortened list of their Mexican dish descriptions: Burritos-flour tortillas rolled around beef, topped with sauce. Chalupas-flat tortillas with fried beans, sprinkled with cheese, topped with guacamole salad. Chile Relleno-poblano peppers stuffed with cheese. Enchiladas-tortillas rolled around seasoned fillings, topped with sauce and cheese. Tacos-tortillas folded and fried crisp and filled with meat. Tamales-savory meat fillings steamed in corn meal casings. Tostados-Flat tortillas with fried beans, topped with shredded beef and guacamole salad.

If I have room for dessert, I typically go for the sopapillas, which are delectable fried flour tortillas, with honey and cinnamon. They also serve excellent versions of flan and fried ice cream.

El Rio Grande has also become a hot lunch spot. They have several lunch specials, as well as many Mexican mainstays. I love their huevos rancheros.

Si, Senor, you can get authentic Mexican fare in the Fan. Just head for El Rio Grande.

El Rio Grande

1324 W. Cary St.

278-9244

Hours??