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Lacey Burke Blogs |
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Monday Night at Mercadito |
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Location: Blogs Blogs |
 | | Posted by: laceyb | 4/24/2008 |  Embracing a brisk spring evening laced with Mahi Mahi tacos and mango margaritas has to be the best way to forget about ones responsibilities and the weight of the world. At about 8pm, I rounded up some willing “partners in crime” and headed to Mercadito on Avenue B. This cozy cantina feels like a lazy Mexican fiesta, while the Diego Rivera on the wall keeps it New York. Weeding through a crowd of people, we then squeezed into our table and before we could even start fantasizing about tequila-based libations, we were greeted by Alfredo Sandoval, the owner, who I’m happy to say is a friend of mine. He primed our palates with some dangerously smooth Siete Leguas Añejo and a towered trio of guacamole and warm tortilla chips. As we tucked into the smoky mango and chipotle mix, he regaled us with tales of the famed tequila company’s many awards, and many legal battles with the corporate giants of Patron.
 Next up was a round of signature margaritas and a ceviche tasting. The incredibly aromatic hibiscus version was just as beautiful as it was thirst quenching. The succulent Mahi Mahi with avocado, tomato and chile de arbol sung next to the tart and tangy layers of the Tres Cítricos. A personal favorite was the pure transparency of the fresh mixto fish, which washed over my palate like a pure ocean wave, with the roasted garlic jalapeño broth adding a warm depth.
 
A parade of tacos danced on the table, each unique treat adding its own special effect. Sautéed crispy chicken got a healthy dose of mole, which benefits from Chef Patrick Sandoval’s 4 months spent in Mexico studying the traditional techniques of preparing this revered sauce. The success of his efforts are obvious in the intensely rich and nutty complexities of his creation.
 We gleefully ate our way thru most of the taco offerings which included the sweet and tender shrimp and avocado cartel and a marinated pork and pickled onion party. Last but not least was Time Out’s well-deserved winner of Best Fish Tacos in New York. The crunchy fish melts in your mouth and provides a feeling of savory comfort.
  Mercadito’s Pièce de résistance is a whole chicken, marinated in a spiced adobo and grilled to juicy perfection, accompanied by a rustic blend of three corn pico de gallo, and rice and beans. Simply said, it’s the best damn chicken I’ve ever had! Words have not be invented to describe this heavenly bird. I can only hope to convey to you, constant readers, the pure bliss that one is overcome with at every bite.
 After some sugary churos and a decadent toasted coconut flan, we were in a blissful state, ready for a little siesta. We toasted one last muddled margarita to a truly successful and relaxing evening.
New York was now a little warmer than when we first walked thru Mercadito’s door and whatever worries we walked in with…, well mañana.
  
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Comments (2)
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Re: Monday Night at Mercadito | By chef o' the future on 5/18/2008 | | I feel like that commercial where the person says "take me with you." Lacey B you are woman of fine taste and so very comfortable with your love of fine dining and atmosphere. As i nibble my L' express burger and crispy fries, i do wish i could have stuck around for some more conversation. Maybe next time when you "take me with you". I will check out your french recommendation.....Amit |
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Re: Monday Night at Mercadito | By lobsterjoe on 8/1/2008 | Outstanding stuff......I saw you on devourtv.com and i linked to your blog. Amazing stuff. I am a NYC GM and really enjoy your pictures of all the places you've been. Please keep posting.
Joe |
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