If there’s one state to symbolize what most Americans consider to be the standard of Mexican cuisine, it would have to be Jalisco. This Western Mexican state is the birthplace of mariachi and tequila and offers a variety of flavorful
If there’s one state to symbolize what most Americans consider to be the standard of Mexican cuisine, it would have to be Jalisco. This Western Mexican state is the birthplace of mariachi and tequila and offers a variety of flavorful dishes inspired by the land and the sea.
That’s why it’s no surprise that Mariachi’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine cites this Mexican state as being an influence for their menu.
Located in the Harbor Mall, Mariachi’s offers outstanding views of the surrounding Kalapaki Beach. Skip the urge to sit inside and ask for a table on the patio to take advantage of their view.
The restaurant’s extensive menu offers a variety of entrees. While the dishes aren’t as complex as other Mexican restaurants, it sticks to the basics — a scoop of Mexican rice cooked in broth, refried beans and simple entrees layered with freshly made sauces.
On the traditional side, the Mexican restaurant offers Menudo ($12.50), ladles full of tripe, hominy and chili stewed with garlic and spices. Chicken mole ($17.50), prepared with unsweetened chocolate and chilies, plus Chile relleno ($18.95), two Anaheim peppers stuffed with cheese.
Marriachi’s serves seafood menu includes stuffed crab enchiladas ($18.95), fish tacos ($15.95) and shrimp specialties ($18.95).
Camarones Tequila ($18.95) is shrimp marinated in tequila and wrapped in bacon.
The restaurant’s specialty is lobster served Puerto Nuevo Style — grilled lobster served with cilantro, salsa fresca, butter and lime (market price).
If you are looking for a delicious way to induce a heart attack, I recommend the carne asada fries — carne asada, sour cream and guacamole layered on top of a bed of French fries ($13.25).
The menu is a bit pricey (I suspect you are paying for the ocean view), but entrees are large enough to split with a friend.
Mariachi’s Authentic Mexican Cuisine is located in the Harbor Mall, located at 3501 Rice Street, Ste. 205 in Lihu‘e. For more information, visit www.mariachiskauai.com or call 246-1570.
Best Bet: Carne asada tacos. Fresh steak served with cilantro, salsa and lime on a corn tortilla. The tacos come with a scoop of guacamole, but skip this side. The flavors of the tacos is a winner itself.
Skip: The salads. If you want a salad, why go to a Mexican restaurant?
On a Budget: Mariachi’s Daily Lunch Specials. Take your choice of two enchiladas, tacos, tamales or tostadas for $8.99. Good until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
