EL CORTEZ - EDMONTON, AB, CANADA
- Ashley Nawrot
- Oct 3, 2018
- 2 min read
As fellow Edmontonians know, Whyte Ave is one of the best places in town for food, people watching, shopping and general wandering. There are tons of restaurants and usually a few new ones to try out, but sometimes a restaurant lasts, because it has amazing food.
El Cortez is one of these places.
Their location is a bit off the main drag, but it's worth the walk down the side block to try the food and experience the atmosphere. They have screens in various corners playing the same old random movie scenes as the 6 foot projection on the side wall. There's always something strange and intriguing on the screens, but it doesn't distract from the conversation at the table. It's a cozy/crazy vibe that engulfs El Cortez; it's inviting and at the same time, I notice something new and weird every time I eat there.
Fire Roasted Tomato Salsa with house blend chips - The tomatoes keep some of their structure, so there's a nice chunky texture. Very simple spices and flavors make it a clean dish, great to cleanse the palate between courses.
El Cortez Guacamole with house blend chips - the guac has a nice texture and consistency, not too liquid like some get if too many tomatoes are added. The spices on top add a bit of zing to the bite, and the chips that are served with the guac and salsa are awesome, great crunch to compliment the dips. If you are a fan of lime in guacamole like I am, definitely squeeze the one on top and maybe ask for another, as it definitely adds to it.
Battered Pescado Tacos - fried battered white fish, house blend slaw, avocado crema - The fish tacos are a great contrast between the crispy fried fish and the tangy, crunchy slaw. The avocado crema cuts the vinegar of the slaw nicely and adds a creamy note to the harmony of the taco. Definitely one of my favorites.
All in all, I've been back here 4-5 times already, and it will continue to be one of my regular haunts down on Whyte Ave.
A
Comments