Anchorage's Thriving Mexican Food Scene: A Culinary Journey

Anchorage's culinary landscape has been undergoing a remarkable transformation, with the city's Mexican food offerings taking center stage. In recent times, a surge of new and reimagined Mexican eateries has emerged, each offering a unique twist on traditional flavors and experiences. From the shiny, revamped Cinco de Mayo to the authentic and homely Salsa Oaxaquena, and the innovative TortillaWorks, Anchorage's residents are being treated to a diverse array of Mexican cuisine that caters to every palate.

Discover the Vibrant Flavors of Anchorage's Mexican Food Renaissance

Cinco de Mayo: Elevating the Taco King Legacy

The former Burrito King location in Midtown has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as the new Cinco de Mayo. This shiny, modern establishment offers a refreshed dining experience, complete with a sleek bar and an expansive menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. While the Taco/Burrito King family of restaurants has long been a local favorite, Cinco de Mayo aims to elevate the experience by introducing a selection of adult beverages to complement the beloved menu items.The open, airy space creates a casual yet sophisticated ambiance, perfect for a weekend afternoon respite. The menu boasts an impressive array of vegetarian options, including tostadas, fajitas, and enchiladas, catering to the diverse dietary preferences of Anchorage's diners. The enchiladas, bathed in a bright yet smoky sauce, are a standout, with generous portions of tender, shredded chicken. The sizzling fajitas, while slightly marred by an overly abundant layer of unremarkable cheese, still manage to deliver a satisfying blend of well-seasoned meat and vegetables.Cinco de Mayo may not be reinventing the tortilla, but it excels at providing reliable, affordable, and flavorful Mexican fare, complemented by a strong, icy cocktail – a winning combination for those seeking a convenient and enjoyable dining experience.

Salsa Oaxaquena: Authentic Flavors in a Cozy Setting

In stark contrast to the shiny veneer of Cinco de Mayo, Salsa Oaxaquena offers a more authentic and homely dining experience. Nestled in a Spenard strip mall, this small, quirky establishment boasts a menu that delves deep into the rich culinary traditions of Oaxaca, Mexico.The dining room exudes a cozy and pleasant ambiance, with a touch of scrappiness that adds to its charm. The lively Mexican pop music and the intriguing presence of a small stage with a white cowboy hat hint at the possibility of evening karaoke sessions, where locals might showcase their talents in rancheras, mariachis, and corridos.While the menu may lack detailed descriptions, the dishes themselves more than make up for it. The carne asada tacos, with their smoky and well-seasoned meat, are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to authenticity. The salsa bar, with its adorable pig-shaped molcajetes filled with vibrant salsas and toppings, adds a delightful touch to the dining experience.The true standout, however, is the chicken mole. The dish's startlingly dark color and deep, earthy flavors, with a lingering heat, showcase the restaurant's mastery of this complex and revered Mexican dish. The tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken is complemented by well-cooked rice and beans, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal.While Salsa Oaxaquena is still finding its footing, the authenticity and care put into its offerings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a genuine taste of Oaxacan cuisine in Anchorage.

TortillaWorks: Elevating the Humble Tortilla

Tucked away in a Benson Boulevard storefront, TortillaWorks is a small, one-man operation that is revolutionizing the way Anchorage residents experience the humble tortilla. Justin Curran, the passionate founder, has been selling a variety of fresh, handcrafted tortillas at local farmers markets, and has now opened a brick-and-mortar tortilleria to share his creations with the community.The TortillaWorks menu boasts an impressive array of tortilla varieties, ranging from classic to innovative. Alongside the traditional options, customers can indulge in Southwest-inspired tortillas infused with chiles, garlic, and cumin, as well as unique flavors like chocolate (with cocoa, cinnamon, and arbol) and curry roti. For the home cook seeking the freshest and most flavorful tortillas, TortillaWorks is a true gem.Beyond the tortillas, Justin also offers a selection of fillings, including beef, chicken, and curried potato, as well as house-made mole and enchilada sauces. The one-stop-shop experience allows customers to assemble a complete taco bar or prepare enchiladas with ease, saving time and effort in the kitchen.While the space is still a work in progress, Justin's infectious enthusiasm and dedication to his craft are palpable. His willingness to lend a hand and share his expertise with customers, from assembling the perfect taco bar to sharing the story behind his family's 120-year-old cast-iron cauldron, adds a personal touch to the TortillaWorks experience.Whether you're an inspired home cook seeking to elevate your Mexican dishes or a time-pressed individual in need of a convenient solution, TortillaWorks is a must-visit destination that promises to transform the way you think about the humble tortilla.