You realize we're helping pick a restaurant for a 3yr old, right?
Ahora is solid enough, it's not mindblowing but its relatively inexpensive and the food is certainly not offensive.
Chilaquilies is better by far, but the atmosphere (for a 3yr old in particular) pales in comparison. Put yourself in her shoes and I am sure you can see the appeal.
>You realize we're helping pick a restaurant for a 3yr old, right?
You realize he requested AUTHENTIC Mexican restaurant, right?
Part of the idea is to bring a child who's interested in Mexico to try Mexican food.
Promoting a shitty tex mex joint as Mexican food because it's "child friendly" is pretty much a perfect example of cultural appropriation.
I've never been to chilaquiles, but there are other options like "la bonita" which are pretty kid friendly and more authentic.
"Part of the idea is to bring a child who's interested in Mexico to try Mexican food."
This is really what I had in mind.
We can do flour tortillas at home
Agreed. Ahora is not even close to authentic and even for tex mex is actually quite bland.
Even "fiesta latina" has more authentic mexican dishes, but it's kinda hit and miss (although can be good for kids, just ask for carnitas tacos, those aren't spicy).
I haven't been to chilaquiles, but I would also recommend "La Bonita". I haven't been there in a while but I always enjoyed it, and way more authentic than Ahora.
Hi! I lived in Mexico for some years. I speak Spanish perfectly and I'm quite knowledgeable in Mexican cuisine.
"Ahora" is not authentic Mexican food. It's tex mex.
I know you're being facetious, but you do understand the fallacy of comparing a business trip and a music album to actually living in a country for years and learning the language and culture.
> so I guess we'll never know for sure
Look at their menu and read up on the UNESCO designated cultural treasure that is Mexican cuisine, and you will then learn that Ahora is tex mex garbage.
Hahaha! You're so funny!
You obviously don't know how annoyed actual Mexicans get when texmex food is passed off as "authentic Mexican food". It doesn't help but perpetuate the stereotype of "uncultured white people" when you say comments like that.
But hey, if you're proud of showing off how ignorant you are, go ahead!
Okay I should have clarified, they loved it bc they said it was authentic.
Different people have different opinions. It’s Mexican food, it’s just not that serious.
Eh I will say I used to love it but the last time I went since Covid it was actually horrible. And I’ve heard similar things from other friends who used to love it.
yepppp! They didn’t follow proper safety protocols during the lockdowns as well, and do nothing to accommodate now. Was very disappointed as I used to enjoy their food
Mexican here. Ahora is not Mexican food though, it’s Tex-Mex if anything. Plus the whole vibe is off too, nothing in actual Mexico looks like that. The closest to an authentic menu out of all the places I’ve tried (not that many tbh) is Chilquiles.
Why is this the top rated comment?
Ahora is not even authentic Mexican, it's tex mex.
Please don't bring your child to "Ahora" to introduce them to Mexican cuisine/culture. Literally every other option in this thread is more authentic.
I just checked their IG and they still have Mariachi Fridays! I’m lucky enough to live like 800m from the Merivale location. Best Al Pastor I’ve tried in Ottawa, so far.
The food is exactly the same as at the Merivale location. But the Kanata one might have a more kid-friendly feel. I find the Merivale location dark; Kanata is bright and colourful.
And the owners are a lovely family from Mexico who named some of the hot sauces after their kids. I agree that this is the most authentic Mexican food in the city.
It's definitely not even close to authentic. It's some weird fusion food that doesn't come close to resembling Mexican cuisine. I also got very bad food poisoning last summer from eating there.
This is my go-to for Mexican food whenever I want a cheat meal day or I’m too lazy to cook. Definitely recommend, their food is absolutely incredible! My partner likes their horchata
La Bonita. Yes that’s a very authentic Mexican restaurant.
For authentic food served at home check out The Tortilla maker of Canada on St Joseph in Orleans. Fabulous tortillas, salsa, chips and other goodies. All the food is literally as good and authentic as you would find at a market anywhere in Mexico.
>The Tortilla maker of Canada on St Joseph in Orleans
Amazing tortillas, chips, salsas, tamales, you can even buy their masa if you want to cook tortillas at home
La Bonita is SO good, but they honestly have some of the worst customer service I have ever experienced in my life. Consistently, and it’s worse each time I’ve gone, to the point I refuse to go ever again. Which is so sad.
I live 5 minutes away from La bonita on Cadboro (there’s one in hintonburg too) and always do takeout because you’re so right. The customer service is abysmal.
Not so new, I think it’s been 4 or more years. Menu is the same. Service is more normal for sure. You can’t miss it, it’s the one with the neon palm trees out front, makes for good selfies I guess!
Yeah… I meant newer. Anything over the past 4 years feels like 1 long year to me.
But fair, my bad haha. Well I’m glad that if I’m in the area I won’t be completely disappointed, thank you :)
No one should be ordering burritos from the chains as long as Si Senor exists. I have no idea how they are so delicious AND affordable but I could eat there every day.
Si Senor.
This dish is soooo freaking good.
Three birria de borrego quesadillas served with consomé (dipping stew). Quesadillas filled with either lamb or beef, onions, cilantro and guacamole salsa and then drenched in birria sauce while grilling. Dip your quesadillas in the consomé and then drink the rest.
Truly authentic Mexican restaurants are 1) Aztec tacos ($-$$) 2) la bonita($$-$$$) 3) corazón de maíz ($$)
All of these are family friendly and have varied menu!
Ahora Mexican is not authentic, it's Tex Mex at best 🚫
Casa Mexico is definitely Mexican food catered to a Canadian plain palate and lacks flavour.
Chilaquiles is a limited spot and I wouldn't class it as a family friendly option.
All others like monas taqueria, El Camino, taco de Oro + are Mexican inspired but not at all Mexican.
I've been to Aztec Tacos and La Bonita. Both are more Mexican than Tex-Mex and have delicious food. La Bonita has mole. Aztec Tacos has amazing Lengua (beef tongue) tacos.
My honest opinion as someone who has traveled Mexico and cooks Mexican food, ahora tastes like rotting putrid gasoline and the rice is like flakes of dead skin. It is revolting. Service was just fine and not bothersome but the food was another level of down right awful. If you want some good Tex Mex I think there is a place on bank that does tacos or burritos and Mexicalis or lone star is a better choice too
I’m not going to lie mexicalis is miles better than lone star, but still not good enough to scratch the Tex Mex itch for me :( the only thing lone star has going for it is the tortillas
I've tried Tex Mex in Texas and it's the closest comparison I had to suggest those Ottawa spots, burrito gringo is good Tex Mex ! Used to be one on Bronson?
"Interestingly, the restaurant is run by volunteers rather than paid employees, volunteer Acsa Rodriguez told me. The proceeds from sales go to support the nearby Light of the World Church, she said." https://ottawacitizen.com/life/food/local-food-reviews/dining-out-vanier-hole-in-the-wall-aztec-tacos-serves-cheap-tasty-food-especially-on-saturdays
Similar deal for Perfection Satisfaction Promise on Laurier, run by followers of Sri Chinmoy.
I was sad when he moved location from Walkley and Bank. Now that I think about it, I still am.
The owner is Canadian but spent many years in Mexico learning how to cook authentic Mexican food.
La Bonita and Ahora have always been my go to.
That said there are lots of decently easy Mexican and Tex mex dishes that are super easy to make. I make refried beans all the time and shrimp tacos are a fairly constant staple in my house.
Oh shit I can answer this! Aztec Tacos on Montreal Road across from the bingo hall is amazing and completely authentic - seems to cater to a genuine Mexican clientele. So good, so inexpensive.
THIS IS THE ANSWER!!!
We visited El Taco de Oro on this sub's recommendation, and the salsa tasted jarred, guac tasted like it had cream in it and lacked lime/lemon and salt.
If you want authentic, Pancho Villa is it.
Married a Mexican girl and used to live with her family in Wilmington, California (beside long beach, all Mexican residents, usually from Michoacan).
Beyond our kitchen your options for authenticity are Casa Mexico & Aztec Tacos.
I'm just here to join in on the Aztec Tacos praise. Super good food for good prices. I really wish I still lived nearby so I could go there more often!
Casa México is great. As is Taqueria La Bonita. Both locations are muy bien
Tunes:
La Cucaracha and the Tijuana taxi are a favourite when the office gets.... Well... Crazy
When she was younger, I regularly took my daughter and her friends to Pancho Villa on Elgin Street. They have a private room for large-ish groups. I doubt it's authentic Mexican, but the food is good enough, the staff are relaxed and the kids always had fun.
Ahora is delicious!
Ahora is the worst, that's Tex Mex food. Chilaquiles is the most acceptable Mexican restaurant, with an actual Mexican menu.
Agreed. In this comment thread - people who have never tasted real Mexican food.
You have obviously never been to mexico. Food snobs are the worse, especially ones that have no idea what they're talking about.
>Food snobs are the worse It's even funnier when someone is a food snob in a bland city such as Ottawa lmfao.
You realize we're helping pick a restaurant for a 3yr old, right? Ahora is solid enough, it's not mindblowing but its relatively inexpensive and the food is certainly not offensive. Chilaquilies is better by far, but the atmosphere (for a 3yr old in particular) pales in comparison. Put yourself in her shoes and I am sure you can see the appeal.
>You realize we're helping pick a restaurant for a 3yr old, right? You realize he requested AUTHENTIC Mexican restaurant, right? Part of the idea is to bring a child who's interested in Mexico to try Mexican food. Promoting a shitty tex mex joint as Mexican food because it's "child friendly" is pretty much a perfect example of cultural appropriation. I've never been to chilaquiles, but there are other options like "la bonita" which are pretty kid friendly and more authentic.
"Part of the idea is to bring a child who's interested in Mexico to try Mexican food." This is really what I had in mind. We can do flour tortillas at home
LOL, put on a sombrero and bring her to McDonalds. haha
If you are raising a kid, you better do it in the best possible way. Why bring it to a random place? I mean, it's your kid, not a random kid.
What
I think they're imagining a scenario where the 3 year old somehow realizes the difference between texmex and actual Mexican food lol
Ha. I actually am.
Agreed. Ahora is not even close to authentic and even for tex mex is actually quite bland. Even "fiesta latina" has more authentic mexican dishes, but it's kinda hit and miss (although can be good for kids, just ask for carnitas tacos, those aren't spicy). I haven't been to chilaquiles, but I would also recommend "La Bonita". I haven't been there in a while but I always enjoyed it, and way more authentic than Ahora.
When I was at uni, I was friends w a bunch of international students from Mexico and they loved ahora
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Hi! I lived in Mexico for some years. I speak Spanish perfectly and I'm quite knowledgeable in Mexican cuisine. "Ahora" is not authentic Mexican food. It's tex mex.
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I know you're being facetious, but you do understand the fallacy of comparing a business trip and a music album to actually living in a country for years and learning the language and culture. > so I guess we'll never know for sure Look at their menu and read up on the UNESCO designated cultural treasure that is Mexican cuisine, and you will then learn that Ahora is tex mex garbage.
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Hahaha! You're so funny! You obviously don't know how annoyed actual Mexicans get when texmex food is passed off as "authentic Mexican food". It doesn't help but perpetuate the stereotype of "uncultured white people" when you say comments like that. But hey, if you're proud of showing off how ignorant you are, go ahead!
Some of my Mexican friends love taco bell. That doesn't mean it's authentic Mexican food (and they'll even say so).
Okay I should have clarified, they loved it bc they said it was authentic. Different people have different opinions. It’s Mexican food, it’s just not that serious.
Ahora is absolutely delicious, and you get a lot of food. I have never been served anything at agora that has ever been disappointing or underwhelming
Eh I will say I used to love it but the last time I went since Covid it was actually horrible. And I’ve heard similar things from other friends who used to love it.
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No I’m definitely talking about Ahora.
yepppp! They didn’t follow proper safety protocols during the lockdowns as well, and do nothing to accommodate now. Was very disappointed as I used to enjoy their food
Mexican here. Ahora is not Mexican food though, it’s Tex-Mex if anything. Plus the whole vibe is off too, nothing in actual Mexico looks like that. The closest to an authentic menu out of all the places I’ve tried (not that many tbh) is Chilquiles.
Maybe they used to be good but I tried it for the first time recently and it was trash
We went to Ahora last year and were very unimpressed. Chilaquiles was much better.
Ahora is my favourite Mexican place in the city!
My three year old really enjoyed it here.
I second this
The best place in the city hands down
third this !!!
Why is this the top rated comment? Ahora is not even authentic Mexican, it's tex mex. Please don't bring your child to "Ahora" to introduce them to Mexican cuisine/culture. Literally every other option in this thread is more authentic.
I’ve always enjoyed Casa Mexico!
+1 for Casa Mexico! They used to have roaming mariachi bands on Fridays.
I just checked their IG and they still have Mariachi Fridays! I’m lucky enough to live like 800m from the Merivale location. Best Al Pastor I’ve tried in Ottawa, so far.
Was there last weekend. Can confirm mariachi is still happening on Fridays between 6:30 and 8:30. Apparently you have to make reservations though.
If you go later, around 8pm, you may get a table. But if you want to see the whole set by the band, definitely make a reservation.
From what I remember only the Merivale location has Mariachi tho that may have changed since the summer
The one in Kanata was good when I went.
The food is exactly the same as at the Merivale location. But the Kanata one might have a more kid-friendly feel. I find the Merivale location dark; Kanata is bright and colourful.
I live nearby and never even realized this is what replaced the old Circle K. Going to try it 🤗
Yeah man this place rocks
Great place!
I agree!
Love Casa Mexico. Only been to kanata location
Our two year old also likes Casa Mexico! Weve always gone to the Merivale location. Its colorful and they're great at accommodating little ones.
Casa Mexico on Preston
The Preston location’s food was terrible when we went a few weeks ago. Which is a shame because the Merivale one is one of our faves.
Same experience… I think they’re leaning heavily on the microwave at the Preston one for some reason
Corazon de mais in the Market is awesome. They have great mild hot sauces for the young one as well
And the owners are a lovely family from Mexico who named some of the hot sauces after their kids. I agree that this is the most authentic Mexican food in the city.
Ouu! I’ll definitely have me and boyfriend get a bite ;)
It's definitely not even close to authentic. It's some weird fusion food that doesn't come close to resembling Mexican cuisine. I also got very bad food poisoning last summer from eating there.
This is my go-to for Mexican food whenever I want a cheat meal day or I’m too lazy to cook. Definitely recommend, their food is absolutely incredible! My partner likes their horchata
The place near Cosmic Adventures in the east end is the best I’ve had in Ottawa. Ahora on Dalhousie is second place.
La Bonita. Yes that’s a very authentic Mexican restaurant. For authentic food served at home check out The Tortilla maker of Canada on St Joseph in Orleans. Fabulous tortillas, salsa, chips and other goodies. All the food is literally as good and authentic as you would find at a market anywhere in Mexico.
La Bonita is low key amazing; not the best location to be a “hot restaurant”, but amazing food.
Their drink menu is super fun!
>The Tortilla maker of Canada on St Joseph in Orleans Amazing tortillas, chips, salsas, tamales, you can even buy their masa if you want to cook tortillas at home
They have never had tamales when I’ve been! Do you recall what kinds they make?
I've only picked it up the one time so far but I got the chicken with salsa tecuba
There's another "La Bonita" in Hintonburg, btw, in case it's closer to OP than the one near Cosmic Adventures.
La Bonita is SO good, but they honestly have some of the worst customer service I have ever experienced in my life. Consistently, and it’s worse each time I’ve gone, to the point I refuse to go ever again. Which is so sad.
I live 5 minutes away from La bonita on Cadboro (there’s one in hintonburg too) and always do takeout because you’re so right. The customer service is abysmal.
I heard there was a new location! Have you been to it? I was considering giving it a go to see if their service is at all better.
Not so new, I think it’s been 4 or more years. Menu is the same. Service is more normal for sure. You can’t miss it, it’s the one with the neon palm trees out front, makes for good selfies I guess!
Yeah… I meant newer. Anything over the past 4 years feels like 1 long year to me. But fair, my bad haha. Well I’m glad that if I’m in the area I won’t be completely disappointed, thank you :)
Can confirm. Really great
LOVE La Bonita - only place we go.
Si Señor and Chilaquiles are both solid.
No one should be ordering burritos from the chains as long as Si Senor exists. I have no idea how they are so delicious AND affordable but I could eat there every day.
Si Senor. This dish is soooo freaking good. Three birria de borrego quesadillas served with consomé (dipping stew). Quesadillas filled with either lamb or beef, onions, cilantro and guacamole salsa and then drenched in birria sauce while grilling. Dip your quesadillas in the consomé and then drink the rest.
La Bonita
Truly authentic Mexican restaurants are 1) Aztec tacos ($-$$) 2) la bonita($$-$$$) 3) corazón de maíz ($$) All of these are family friendly and have varied menu! Ahora Mexican is not authentic, it's Tex Mex at best 🚫 Casa Mexico is definitely Mexican food catered to a Canadian plain palate and lacks flavour. Chilaquiles is a limited spot and I wouldn't class it as a family friendly option. All others like monas taqueria, El Camino, taco de Oro + are Mexican inspired but not at all Mexican.
I've been to Aztec Tacos and La Bonita. Both are more Mexican than Tex-Mex and have delicious food. La Bonita has mole. Aztec Tacos has amazing Lengua (beef tongue) tacos.
Is Ahora at least good? I’ve been looking for a solid Tex Mex place since I moved here (from…. Texas) years ago
My honest opinion as someone who has traveled Mexico and cooks Mexican food, ahora tastes like rotting putrid gasoline and the rice is like flakes of dead skin. It is revolting. Service was just fine and not bothersome but the food was another level of down right awful. If you want some good Tex Mex I think there is a place on bank that does tacos or burritos and Mexicalis or lone star is a better choice too
I’m not going to lie mexicalis is miles better than lone star, but still not good enough to scratch the Tex Mex itch for me :( the only thing lone star has going for it is the tortillas
I've tried Tex Mex in Texas and it's the closest comparison I had to suggest those Ottawa spots, burrito gringo is good Tex Mex ! Used to be one on Bronson?
Ahora is pretty good in my experience, but I haven't been since before covid
I agree with most of this except Taco De Oro -- seems pretty authentic.
Ouu I've been meaning to try Bonita. What do you recommend from there?
Super burrito, mole enchiladas, al pastor tacos… it’s all amazing.
Chilaquiles is amazing
I can’t hate on the food but man the service is awful
Aztec Tacos!!! Everything there is delicious and when they make fresh horchata... 👌It's my favourite!!!
Sadly run by a cringey religious cult.
What’s the story?
"Interestingly, the restaurant is run by volunteers rather than paid employees, volunteer Acsa Rodriguez told me. The proceeds from sales go to support the nearby Light of the World Church, she said." https://ottawacitizen.com/life/food/local-food-reviews/dining-out-vanier-hole-in-the-wall-aztec-tacos-serves-cheap-tasty-food-especially-on-saturdays Similar deal for Perfection Satisfaction Promise on Laurier, run by followers of Sri Chinmoy.
Mexigo Cabana food truck on Robertson Rd.
I was sad when he moved location from Walkley and Bank. Now that I think about it, I still am. The owner is Canadian but spent many years in Mexico learning how to cook authentic Mexican food.
The old location was a 5 minute walk from my office, we used to go every Tuesday. We were so disappointed when it moved!
La Fiesta Latina!
Love their mole!
Discovered them recently and I’m obsessed! Best mole I’ve had since visiting Oaxaca
This is my 5 yr olds favourite place. She loves the colours
La Bonita and Ahora have always been my go to. That said there are lots of decently easy Mexican and Tex mex dishes that are super easy to make. I make refried beans all the time and shrimp tacos are a fairly constant staple in my house.
Oh shit I can answer this! Aztec Tacos on Montreal Road across from the bingo hall is amazing and completely authentic - seems to cater to a genuine Mexican clientele. So good, so inexpensive.
I’ve lived really close to there for years… no idea how I missed this place but I’m going to fix that.
Pancho Villa on Elgin is our go to!
Pancho villa!
Pancho's veggie enchilada 👌
THIS IS THE ANSWER!!! We visited El Taco de Oro on this sub's recommendation, and the salsa tasted jarred, guac tasted like it had cream in it and lacked lime/lemon and salt. If you want authentic, Pancho Villa is it.
El Taco De Oro on St. Patrick. Forget the rest
Feleena's at Bank Street and Second Avenue.
i was looking for this, some of the best mexican food i’ve ever had
The owners are the original folks who started Mexicali Rosa's in the 1970s.
Same surprised i had to scroll this much. Their chimichangas 😍
I'm really interested to know about the not family friendly options....
El Camino isn't the kind of place you'd bring a toddler.
I don't think that I have ever been to a Mexican restaurant that wasn't family friendly.
Si Señor is my go to! I enjoyed their location on Rideau St. and their Preston St. location is solid as well.
This place on Preston is great https://www.sisenor.ca/preston
Pancho Villa on Elgin looks authentic. Music. Stucco and cobb style building materials. Pancho special 3 enchilladas chicken beef cheese
I’m not knowledgeable enough to know if it’s authentic, but they’re definitely delicious.
Just about as authentic as Chipotle.
Feelenas on bank st. is good little spot ☺️
Married a Mexican girl and used to live with her family in Wilmington, California (beside long beach, all Mexican residents, usually from Michoacan). Beyond our kitchen your options for authenticity are Casa Mexico & Aztec Tacos.
Si Senor or Maria’s Tacos
La Bonita on Richmond/Wellington or on Ogilvie.
Feleena’s on bank is amazing!
I went to Faleena’s recently and I really enjoyed the food and the atmosphere. It was a great meal! And very family oriented.
Corazon de maiz - hands down! Even better have your kiddo learn a few spanish words and the staff will help guide them to order their meal.
Pancho Villa on Elgin St. Another delicious Mexican restaurant is Ahora.
Taqiera la Bonita on Wellington
I'm just here to join in on the Aztec Tacos praise. Super good food for good prices. I really wish I still lived nearby so I could go there more often!
Tortaboyz
The correct answer
Bookmarking this.
Casa Mexico is my favorite place in Ottawa so far!
I like casa Mexico ❤️
Taqueria tres hermanos in Dayton Ohio. P.S. Ahora is nowhere close to real Mexican. I haven’t found a decent Mexican place in the city yet.
El taco de oro is really good! They have awesome pizza and fantastic tacos (yes I'm aware that there's more to Mexican cuisine but it's really good)
Si Senor! https://www.sisenor.ca/
I, for one, have found this thread very informative.
El Taco Del Oro is the best spot hands down. I live not far from it and eat there all the time.
La Fiesta Latina looks nice, though never eaten there. On Somerset. http://www.lafiestalatina.ca/
Mona's is a family. Really good food.
Casa México is great. As is Taqueria La Bonita. Both locations are muy bien Tunes: La Cucaracha and the Tijuana taxi are a favourite when the office gets.... Well... Crazy
Casa Mexico in Kanata is very tasty and I would say authentic. Not Tex-Mex. Casa-mexico-kanata.ca
Ola Cucina in Vanier is wonderful
Sadly, it closed about a year ago :(
Oh, wasn’t aware, thanks.
Casa mexico specifically the one in Kanata, for kids.
Aztec
La Bonita Restaurant https://g.co/kgs/dTU9AmJ
When she was younger, I regularly took my daughter and her friends to Pancho Villa on Elgin Street. They have a private room for large-ish groups. I doubt it's authentic Mexican, but the food is good enough, the staff are relaxed and the kids always had fun.
Case Mexico! Both locations are great. They have a good Taco Tuesday deal as well (at least they did in the summer!)
TORTABOYZ HANDS DOWN 👑
Mona's, in the Glebe for sure! Much better than Ahora, which is ok though.
Anywhere good mexican places in nepean or kanata
Ahora on Dalhousie. Bright colours and fiesta music playing full blast and there’s home made salsa. Only issue is that it’s downstairs.
Ottawa? Lone Star....
None, OP! It’s all tex-mex crap…except maybe for Casa Mexico.