Ixtapa Mexicant Restaurant

Ixtapa is wonderful! Easy to get to, but away from all the bland chain restaurants that call themselves ""Mexican"", Ixtapa is truly authentic Mexican cuisine.\r \r I have always wondered why all the places that claim to serve Mexican food typically only serve TexMex. When in Mexico, TexMex is not what is served. You can even special order (in advance) civiche! Amazing!\r \r REAL MEXICAN FOOD! What you would eat at a nice restaurant if you were in Mexico.\r \r The owner came to our table and gave the very best sales presentation of a menu that I have ever experienced in 40 years of life and 15 years of traveling around the world.\r \r Do yourself, your family, and your friends a favor -- take them all to Ixtapa. It's right behind the Quick Trip that is just west of the Barry Road, I-29 interchange. Pros: Best authentic Mexican food I've had in USA and awesome menu presentation Cons: Hidden by all the Zona Rosa growth and chain restaurants more

My husband and I have been to Ixtapa at least 20 times, and we still crave their steak or chicken tacos chidos and camarones al mojo de ajo (shrimp and mushrooms in a tomato garlic sauce). We started going when it just opened, and apparently word has spread, because now we have to call ahead on weekends to be seated upon arrival. We've tried many items from their large menu, and are satisfied every time. We often take out-of-towners to Ixtapa. The flavors are so delicious, that they discourage putting yellow cheese all over everything, as the owner will tell you. Sometimes, the owner will even come to your table to explain the menu to you, and you'll see his utter disgust for mass produced items Taco Bell and Abuelos! They offer traditional ""Tex-Mex"" fair like fajitas and taco salad for the less adventurous, but you won't be disappointed by their authentic menu items. Don't forget the Margarita Ixtapa....the best!!! You'll ask for a second. Pros: Large portions, fresh ingredients Cons: Will need to get there early on weekends or make reservations. The restaurant is small, and you're in close quarters with your fellow diners. Ambience leaves a little to be disired. more

This is a small intimate restaurant, and I hate to give up a good secret, but you will love the food and the personal attention. You can have the ""House Margarita"" but I would highly recommend that you opt for ""The Best Margarita Of Your Life"". Located across the road from Zona Rosa to the east of Quik-Trip. If you don't know what you would like, just ask the owner. He may even make something for you that isn't on the menu. Very friendly atmosphere. Sorry, Ponak's. Ixtapa is #1. Drink responsibly. Pros: Wonderful original food; large menu; personable & friendly; you are a guest. Cons: A little pricey for Mexican, but worth every penny. more