Otis and I finally made it over to Loco Pollo on Washington Ave yesterday, and we were really glad we did. For $14 we got a filling, flavorful meal for both of us-- in a friendly and colorful atmosphere.

We each had a bowl of the posole, a pork-and-hominy stew. Its flavor was intense and the portions were generous. My only tiny complaint would be that the pork itself seemed a touch dry-- I suspect they use a lean cut of pork to satisfy the Maine palate, where the traditional version would have a fattier cut that would fall apart in the stew. Regardless, it was truly delicious. It wasn't too spicy, so I added a small drop of El Yucateco that they have on a convenient salsa bar, and the spice level was perfect.

The tamale was also delicious. I had one with chicken and green chile. The smooth warm masa dominated the palate, with the occasional burst of flavor. It was not, as some have noted, an intensely flavored tamale-- but for me that tastes more authentically Yucatecan. I'm certainly not an expert on Mexican cuisine, though, so I am sure others will differ. I like the corn-dominant style, with the meat and spice acting more as a condiment.

On the previously-mentioned salsa bar there were three fresh salsas as well. All were tasty, but I really liked the green salsa as a complement to my tamale.

There's been a lot of buzz around about our new restaurant, El Rayo. Rave reviews, excitement! Thrills!

Well, I can't say I concur, unfortunately. Don't get me wrong-- it was fine. I liked the space, it's nice that they have margaritas, and I ate some little fried potato things that were fairly tasty. But honestly, I thought it was a bit overpriced, and you get a lot better of a meal at Loco Pollo on Washington Ave.

At El Rayo, a single fish taco was $3.95, and it was not particularly generous in the amount of fish provided. I'm also pretty sure the tortilla was not handmade. The hot sauces were pretty tasty, though.

At Loco Pollo, they now serve three tacos for $7, and they're chock full of filling and flavor. The handmade tortillas are authentic and soft.

I'll probably go back to El Rayo occasionally, since it's close to my house and decent. But if I want a more filling, tasty, and authentic meal I'll go to Loco Pollo. (And hope the pozole is on the menu. Boy, is that good.)

But really what I'll dream about is the beef tacos from the groceria/taqueria across from my apartment when I lived in Wicker Park (Chicago) years ago. Nothing but a tortilla, grilled beef, cilantro, and onion. Hit it with a little lime squeeze and a dash of hot sauce. $1. (I'm not joking when I say I still dream about those tacos, ten years later. They were simply perfect.)

Loco Pollo: 52 Washington Ave, 899-4422
El Rayo: 101 York St., 780-TACO