Manny & Merle

Have you had the chance to check out “ModMex” Manny & Merle on the corner of 2nd and Main downtown? This cool eatery features an à la carte taco menu, STRONG margaritas by the pitcher, as well as bourbon drinks.  From the creator of Tony Palombino of BoomBozz Pizza, this urban venue is relaxing with it’s exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and shotgun style dining space with room in the front for a band. Here’s what I ate:

The margaritas, though strong, were very tasty because they didn’t have that sweet syrupy taste that many canned Mexican places have; you could really taste the lime juice and the tequila.  Fresh is a common theme in Manny & Merle’s.  There is no freezer on the premises.  For my appetizer I tried their three different types of guacamole with their house made chips.  The roasted corn and poblano guacamole were good but the star was the pineapple guacamole.  I had no idea avocados and pineapple went so well together!

The taco menu is tiny with only six options ranging from $3-$4 each, served family style on one large tray with a group order, but way better than your only choices being chicken or beef at other restaurants.  I ate the braised beef brisket taco, topped with caramelized onions, peppers, cilantro and queso, as well as the crispy fish taco, which is PBR beer battered and topped with shaved cabbage, salsa fresca and baja cream.

The meal was inexpensive and delicious.  Just remember this eatery is 100 yards away from the Yum! Center so check the event schedule prior to getting there or you will never get a seat.