Rosa Mexicano
Rosa Mexicano, which prides itself on "upscale, modern and authentic Mexican cuisine," first opened in New York to rave reviews and has since opened locations across the country. The food is generously seasoned, elegantly plated, and heartily satisfying.
Like any good Mexican restaurant, homemade tortilla chips arrive, still warm, to your table first. Ubiquitous guacamole is on the menu but is better here than other places for one simple reason: It's fresh, made to-order tableside in a mortar bowl out of avocados, tomatos, onions, cilantro, and your desired amount of jalapeno. (Lovers of spicy food should use the heat index, ranging from 1-3 peppers, next to menu items to select their orders.) Other noteworthy appetizers are a tuna shrimp ceviche, freshened with citrus and mint, and a rich duck tortilla pie, simultaneously creamy and spicy.
As far as entrees, Rosa offers the mandatory tacos, fajitas, and enchiladas, generously filled with the expected cheese and chicken or steak. But what really sets this place apart from lesser Mexican restaurants are the more unique dishes: Salmon with a mole made of fruit, sea bass with achiote and oranges, crispy pork shank with chorizo chili, filet mignon with a mushroom-tequila sauce. The fish dishes are delicately seasoned and perfectly cooked while the meat ones are flavorful, moist and fork-tender.
Authentic, updated desserts don't disappoint either. Dip crispy churros into sweet sauces, try a slice of a traditional tres leches cake, or spoon happily into a rich creamy flan. A spiced chocolate cupcake stuffed with cream and served with espresso sauce is an option also. Or pick three of several homemade ice creams to sample. (Mexican vanilla, Kahlua coffee, and chocolate sorbet is a winning combination.)
Rosa Mexicano also offers a comprehensive beverage menu. Although there is a wine list broken down by budget, various sangrias, and a full bar with great, original cocktails, focus on tequila and house margaritas. A third of the drink menu is devoted to Rosa Mexicano's impressive tequila collection, with tasting flights available for the brave. House margaritas are inspired too, the signature including pomegranate and other options ranging from traditional combinations to ones with cinnamon, mango, or St. Germain liquor.
For half-price cocktails and appetizers, stop by for a summer happy hour during the months of May to September, 4pm-7pm Monday through Friday. Another great time to stop by is during Sunday brunch, which brings menu additions both classic (huevos rancheros, chilaquiles) and modern (breakfast tacos, Crabcake Benedicts).
For those with children, the "young amigos" menu offers tortillas rolls, quesadillas, and creative Mexican variations of chicken fingers and pot pie. A complimentary drink and dessert are included also. And for those who'd rather eat at home, a condensed menu is available for take-out and delivery.
Review by Andrew Marin of "Where'd Ya Eat?" Twitter and Blog
Penn Quarter
202-783-5522
575 7th Street at F Street, NW
Washington, DC 20004
National Harbor
301-567-1005
153 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, MD 20745