The Mexican word fiesta means party and that’s just how I would describe my evening at the opening of La Rosa Mexican Grille and Tequileria in Montecasino. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with sombreros and El Jimador frozen margaritas. What better way to start the evening?!
Everything about La Rosa is authentically Mexican, the beautifully crafted Mexican-inspired murals etched into the walls and the festive atmosphere made us feel as if we had been magically transported to Cancun or Mexico City.
With a tequileria bar that boasts the very widest range of 100% Agave Tequila we were taken on a tequila tasting journey. Starting from the un-aged Blanco to the Extra Añejos aged 3-5 years in oak barrels. Our barman took us through the true Mexican way of drinking tequila – following each tequila with a chaser of Sangrita, made from a blend of tomato, orange and lime juices and hot spices. This was quite the change for those of us used to drinking tequila shots with the obligatory lime and salt.
A sage piece of advice which I will hang onto is, “You must respect the tequila. It treats you the same way you treat it, if you aggressively slam it back, it will get mad and return the favour.” Something I’m sure we can all relate to.
With stories and conversation beginning to flow as they usually do after a few rather potent tequilas, we sat down to a real Mexican feast. From nachos to tacos, our taste buds were tingling with every kind of flavour prepared by Executive Chef Herbert Pizer. The Oaxacan Lamb Barbacoa – slow roasted lamb shoulder in adobo, pickled red onion with feta cheese and salsa verde is an absolute winner! I’m already planning a return visit just for these.
Things were in full swing with Dia de los Muertos face painting and of course more tequilas and margaritas as dessert was served. After trying out so many dishes, we had to make room for some Churros. Decadent fried pastry, cinnamon sugar and salted caramel. No Mexican dining experience is complete without these.
It is no wonder that La Rosa was named the 2017 Best of Joburg – Best New Restaurant. It is an absolute feast and just the spot to indulge in some serious Mexican magic that will leave you with “Barriga llena, corazón contento.” A fully belly and a happy heart.
La Rosa Mexican Grille and Tequileria
Shop #2 Montecasino, 1 Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways
For more information, visit La Rosa online, on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Photos provided by Strategic Public Relations.