by Michael Totten

Created on: September 29, 2009   Last Updated: April 26, 2011

Huntsville, Alabama, is not the heart of Mexican cuisine. It has neither the border ambience of Texas and the southwestern states, nor the cosmopolitan environment of larger American cities. Even so, it is still possible to find an excellent Mexican restaurant experience in Huntsville to suit your taste.

Cantina Laredo
Bridge Street Town Center, 6782 Old Madison Pike, (256) 327-8580

In this gourmet Mexican restaurant, the atmosphere is set when the guacamole is scooped out from the avocados and made fresh right at your table. In fact, all of Cantina Laredo's sauces are made from scratch, and it shows. A 3-course $15.99 prix fixe is usually available by request, although it does not always appear on the menu. If you can leave enough space to cap your meal with Cantina Laredo's apple pie and a Cafe Flameado, you won't be disappointed.

Phil Sandoval's Mexican Restaurante
6125 University Dr NW, (256) 489-5711

Rosie's Mexican Cantina
7540 Memorial Pkwy SW, (256) 382-3232
6196 University Dr NW, (256) 922-1001

Rosie's southwestern Tex-Mex and fun Mexican atmosphere is a staple of Huntsville food culture. You won't find anything on this menu that is not familiar comfort food with the occasional Americanized twist such as Mexican lasagna, and that's exactly how its regulars like it. Rosie's on Memorial is a very large building, but you still have to come early on busy weekend nights, before 5:30 pm, to find quick seating. The only time you can dodge the weekend wait is on the first couple of Fridays of high school football season.

Phil Sandoval's used to be the first of the Rosie's restaurants and it still stands right across the street from Rosie's new location, but Sandoval's has moved far enough away from Rosie's to create a distinct taste experience all its own. The green rice and black beans are far above the standard for side dishes, while the chips and salsa are delightful on their own. Baked chips are available as an off-the-menu substitution for fried chips.

Service is quick and friendly at both Rosie's and Phil Sandoval's. However, if you are looking for authentic Mexican, neither Rosie's nor Phil Sandoval's will meet the bill.

El Palacio of Mexican Food
2008 Memorial Pkway SW, (256) 534-9161

For something a little out of the ordinary, try out this funky little hole-in-the-wall Mexican eatery. You will know it at once, because this is the kind of place which most newcomers to Huntsville won't give a second glance. It's their loss.

The refried beans of El Palacio are the equal of any in Texas, and their chile rellenos are in the running for best anywhere. For excellent value, try their lunch buffet. This works a bit differently from a standard all-you-can-eat buffet. Instead, you can choose any 2 items to go with beans, rice, chips, salsa, and a drink. During your meal, take the time to look up from your plate at a ceiling design like no other.

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