My first full-length restaurant review, Aqui Es: A Taste Of Mexico is a taqueria voted #3 in the nation by Insider Magazine! This review is the full-length review featuring my special guest, friend, and fellow foodie, Ike.
Hello, and welcome to a special episode of CrunchTime with D! Over the last few weeks, I’ve posted previews of my experiences at different restaurants that I’ve visited. But this is my first full review of a restaurant.
Today, I’m visiting Aqui Es: A Taste of Mexico in Bethlehem PA voted #3 in the nation for their tacos. Yes, third in the country! We’ll talk more about that, but first, let’s get the backstory on this restaurant, it’s owner, and staff before I dive into some exquisite culinary delight with a special guest!
In case you were wondering, Aqui Es means, “It’s Here!” This humble establishment is a local staple that is fully supported by the community. But don’t be fooled by the size of this place. The menu here is expansive, and you’re guaranteed to get a meal that you will enjoy, and they will customize any of their dishes. The staff here is uber, friendly, and outgoing. Come here once, and they won’t forget your name the next time you come in!
Daniel Flores owns Aqui Es: A Taste of Mexico. A native of Mexico, he’s been in the US since 1998. Get this: He started his career as a dishwasher before his boss pushed him into the kitchen one night. Fifteen years later, he’s cooked American, French, Italian, and Greek foods. He loves to incorporate those flavors into his menus.
This place has been in operation for a little over three years, which is impressive considering that Aqui Es has received numerous reviews and awards, many of them at the national level, including being voted #3 in the nation by Insider Magazine for their tacos, and 12th for Travel and Leisure magazine!
Aqui Es has received numerous reviews and awards, many of them at the national level, including being voted #3 in the nation by Insider Magazine
The food here is outstanding, quality with consistency. Daniel and his staff – and his cute little helper who just turned two years old today – stick to what they know and do it very well. All of the ingredients for their dishes are sourced fresh. But he’s traveled to Mexico to ensure that he has authentic recipes and flavors, which comes through in the tacos and his sauces, made in house.
Taco Al Pastor is an Aqui Es favorite dish here. But the staff cooked up a series of amazing dishes during my visit. Among my favorites was a taco made with scallops in a white wine butter sauce with onions, cilantro, and radishes. I also tried the prime rib taco, crab taco, and one of my favorites, the marinated pork. Listen, I tried everything and loved it all! Yeah, man!
Since this is my first full restaurant review, I invited a special guest, my friend, and fellow food connoisseur, Ike Testman. Take a look at our review of the dishes.
Of course, this restaurant gets my official #pictureworthy hashtag. I can’t wait to visit again!
~CrunchTime With D
