Where, of all places, would you find a great Mexican restaurant in the Bronx? I bet you weren't thinking of Arthur Avenue (Little Italy), but surprises come in all shapes and forms.
The portions are pretty good. They range from decently sized to "Oh my goodness... I can't take another bite." And the prices are reasonable too. The food I order here would easily cost at least $15 to $25 in Manhattan, but only cost about $10 to $15 here. But how does it all taste?
Amazing. Yes, Estrellita Poblana has delicious Mexican food. I crave the stuff. I ordered the "carnitas servidas con guacamole de la casa (pulled pork served with guacamole)" and loved the stuff. The carnitas were so juicy, flavorful, and soft, yet they had that nice, crisp outer layer that comes with pan-frying the carnitas after long hours of slow cooking. The rice and beans were a great accompaniment, and the guacamole only made it that much better. And unlike other places that give a pinky sized amount of guacamole as an excuse for a serving, they give a whole wallop of the stuff. As an avocado lover, I definitely appreciate this.
Chips and salsa (which are as addictive as drugs since I subconsciously stuff my face with chips) are complimentary, and certain dishes, like the carnitas, come with tortillas. I don't know how they do it, but the small container of tortillas seems to be bottomless. It's as if there is a little man constantly making tortillas in that container. I have never reached the bottom since I always get so full before I get the opportunity to. I will get there one day! I will solve the mystery of the never-ending tortillas!
The service is very friendly. Perhaps they're a little slow at times, but they are, for the most part, polite.
The biggest problem about the place may be its small size. The place can get packed really quickly, and it's really necessary to call in if you are coming in with a big party. And don't even think about coming here without calling in, regardless the party size, on Cinco de Mayo. This place gets packed and a line goes out the door.
In short:
Chips & Salsa: A (Anything complimentary sounds good to me)
Carnitas with guacamole: +A (lots of carnitas, lots of rice, lots of beans, lots of guacamole, and lots of complimentary tortillas)
Service: B+ or A-
Price: A- or A
Tip: With a big party, or on holidays, come early to avoid the rush or call ahead of time so you know how your chances look. read more