Driving into Barra Vieja, only a worn out banner signals a dirt road into what is one of the most…read morefamous eateries in this part of Acapulco. As you walk into the restaurant you'll see a grouping of long tables under a typical 'palapa', and a notorious wall displaying the place's famous patrons that have visited in the past: soccer player Raul Jimenez, ex-governor Eruviel Avila, and even current president Enrique Peña Nieto, among many others, all behind the desk where you might find La Cubana sitting at her chair welcoming guests. Tourists flock to this restaurant for the Pescado a la Talla, fresh snapper or bass grilled in tin foil seasoned in the house's adobo, which has been the place's claim to fame since its inception.
The experience is definitely Acapulco-worthy. Even if this area caters almost exclusively to tourists, the hospitality and warmth of the service give off the welcoming vibe that is so unique to Mexico. The food is also worth the drive. The Camarones al Chingadazo, stewed shrimp in the house's special sauce is a great way to begin the meal along with a cold Corona. Then the giant plates arrive, a typical Barra Vieja feast that includes Pescado a la Talla and Pescado al Ajillo.
The Pescado al Ajillo is a wonderfully salty and garlicky treat, which somehow always manages to taste better at a beach even in shabby conditions. Freshly made tortillas also arrive at the table and the engorging begins. When you think you've had a pretty good fish, you proceed to taste the Pescado a la Talla and wonder why you even bothered with the Al Ajillo to begin with. A myriad of spices of chiles give the fish a reddish tint and a captivating flavor. The fame of this dish lives up to expectations, and you feel you just can't improve upon your Acapulco experience.
As you prepare to leave you feel as if leaving a party. Everybody greets you on your way out, the sunshine fading and gleefully reflecting on the bright yellow walls as you walk out. It's time to continue La Fiesta in another part of Acapulco.
