With Fivo the Mayo (Cinco de Mayo for my Spanish speaking
amigos) quickly approaching I thought that it would only be fitting to start
off this adventure series with Mexico. However, I really couldn’t afford to hop
on a plane and review a country for all of you, but I do accept donations. I
apologize for the lack of adventure displayed in this adventure blog but I did
bring you the closest thing Detroit offers to the great state of Mexico,
Mexicantown. Actually, that might not be completely accurate. There are other
places with bartering, street food, stray dogs, and wild chickens. Have any of
you been to Gibraltar Trade Center? Anyways…
Mexicantown is easily
one of the most visited areas of downtown Detroit. Located between Clark Park
and West Grand Blvd, Mexicantown is packed with vibrant buildings, shopping,
and of course amazing food. It is easy to see why so many people visit each
year. Although Mexicantown offers a
variety of activities, I am fairly certain that those reading this blog aren’t
concerned with the shopping district, but just so you know, there are quite a
few places to get a kick ass sombrero.
People from the suburbs are concerned with safety in
downtown Detroit and especially Mexicantown, but in my numerous aventuras I
have not encountered any issues. Although I would advise those that aren’t
familiar with the area to stick to Bagley or Vernor Ave until you feel more
comfortable. Parking may also be an issue depending on the time of day but two
outstanding restaurants offer private lots instead of on-street parking.
The first of these restaurants is Armando’s Mexican Cuisine.
Armando’s is located just off the Bagley strip on Vernor Ave. Armando’s offers
a great menu, décor, and atmosphere. The area may seem a little shady but there
is a parking lot attached to the back of the building. If you are looking to
throw your own Mexican themed party you can also have Armando’s cater or
provide carry-out. Combine Armando’s with Evie’s Tamales and you can throw one
hell of a fiesta.
The second is my personal favorite, Xochimilco (pronounced
soc-i-mico). Xochimilco is named after one of the sixteen boroughs found within
the Mexican Federal District. The restaurant itself is essentially a converted
house. When you walk inside you will see narrow walkways and different rooms
set up with seating. Upstairs they offer a bar and additional seating.
The food at Xochimilco is outstanding. They start you off
with arguably the best chips and salsa this side of Mexico. The menu is diverse
and large, offering both traditional and Americanized options. I highly
recommend flautas. For those of you that aren’t familiar, a flauta is a large
corn tortilla rolled around a filling (chicken, steak, etc). It is then topped
with lettuce, sour cream, tomato, etc. I must warn you, the portions are
massive so order accordingly. Last but not least, Xochimilco offers margarita
by the pitcher. Yes, you heard that correctly. These are deceptively strong and
very tasty so please be careful. Remember you may be driving in an unfamiliar
area.
Overall, Mexicantown is a great place to take a date, go out
for a family dinner, or just experience the great city of Detroit. For those of
you looking to celebrate Fivo the Mayo, there is no better place than
Mexicantown. So grab some friends, your sombrero, and a designated driver and
head on down. Feedback is welcome so feel free to comment on your experience or
questions.
Xochimilco
3409 Bagley Ave
Detroit, MI 48216
Armando’s Mexican Cuisine
4242 W Vernor Hwy
Detroit, MI 48209
Evie’s Tamales
3454 Bagley Ave
Detroit, MI 48216
Gracias,
Esteban
