Ruben A.
Yelp
Umm..... I can't believe that I've just now discovered this delicious restaurant.
I knew it was going to be legit when I saw the corn tortillas being hand-made when I walked in (make sure you leave a tip).
We visited last weekend for the first time. I was just looking for some Mexican food with good reviews, and I was honestly not expecting it to be this good. I've tried quite a few places in Oregon, and most do not hit the spot. This one though, oh man, I'm coming back for sure. Eugene needs a place like this, I can't be driving 2 hours to eat here...but I just might.
First of all, the place is pretty nice. It gives me a Mexican modern/coastal vibe. It's casual enough for families to go and eat but has an upscale feel that would be great for a date. The decor is bright and airy, and makes me feel like this place would be overlooking the beaches in Rosarito or Playa Del Carmen. The music playing in the background was also pretty good, it was bachata when we went.
Our waitress was friendly and attentive. Once we were seated, chips and salsas were dropped off at our table within a few minutes. The chips were good, but the salsa was really good. We got two kinds, and although I'm not sure what kind of salsas they were, I can say that they were a delicious botana before our food.
Unfortunately, we didn't order any cocktails since we were having to drive back to Eugene after our meal. I'm going to have to go back and give them a shot...or two..or three (pun intended).
The food? Ohhhh man, the food was not what we were expecting. It was better than we thought. My wife ordered the Torre De Mariscos, which was a big plate of seafood. It was so good. Honestly, the best mariscos plate I've had in Oregon.
My suegra (mother-in-law) ordered the whole fried tilapia, which was also a hit. It was cooked very well. Crispy and flavorful on the outside, but delicate and flaky inside. Put some fish on a handmade tortilla, some lime, and their delicious beans, and you'll be licking your fingers.
I ordered something I NEVER order at a restaurant, because I'm usually left disappointed. I'm not really sure why I did it, but I asked for the fajitas de res. I think I just wanted to try something different, and a plate of sizzling carne asada with vegetables potentially sounded good. Everyone else's food came out first, and as I saw their plates, I was really hoping that mine would smell, look, and taste as good as theirs. Well, guess what? When my plate hit the table, I knew I chose a good spot for dinner. That plate was sizzling, the smell was killing me, and I dug right in. It was so good. I mean, really good. The salad that came with it was also delicious, and the beans? Oh, the beans felt like home. There's no doubt about it, this place has got to be one of the best Mexican restaurants I've had in Oregon. I know, I know, there's an insane amount of places I have yet to try, but this one is at the top of MY list.
All three of us were in agreement, that although the prices seemed a bit expensive at first sight, it was clear that they were priced just right for the quality, taste, and service you get. I've paid more at other places and walked out feeling like it was a waste. Not here though, this was worth every dollar. I do hope that this will be my experience EVERY TIME, because I plan on making more trips to La Villa Grill & Bar.