Rob W.
Yelp
I had the great good fortune to visit Oaxaca this spring, so when the construction in the old Talde space began advertising a modem Oaxacan cuisine, I could not have been more excited. And the early experience was well worth the excitement and the wait.
For starters, we tried the trio of Oaxacan salsa--verde, morita and habanero--all tasty and authentic--the smoky morita was a particular favorite. Lovely presentation of the contrasting colored salsas. Watch that habanero, it is spicy!
There was no way I was not trying the Mole Oaxacana, and it delivered. The mole had that deep, rich, unctuous umami flavor that a great mole should. Chicken was nice and juicy, and I loved the non-traditional broccoli rabe side, which was fun with a hint of mole. White rice side was a bit boring though, would have loved a twist on it, or something completely different.
My friend had the chicken tacos, which were a nice size and well garnished with cilantro and pico. The taco chicken was a tiny bit over cooked/dry though.
FYI, Currently waiting for a liquor license; they are happy to let you BYOB for now, and will provide ice buckets for wine, etc. They have a nice, spacious bar area ready for when that license comes through.
Friendly and comfortable environment (if you knew Talde, same layout, but with the predominant blue and Mexican decor), and service was wonderful for any restaurant, much less a new one you would expect to be working out the kinks. Lourdes was a charming hostess, offering great suggestions, and Rabi a friendly, attentive waiter, particularly as I waited for friends alone. I'm excited to have this option in the neighborhood, and can't wait to come back and try other menu options--(and hopefully a full bar)!