Panchita's was the first restaurant that convinced me that the state of Mexican restaurant cookery in New Orleans might actually get a boost from all the Hispanic people who came here to work after the hurricane. Family run and modest, it nevertheless has a good sense not only of what tastes good, but what might appeal to the adventuresome local palate.
Panchita's opened in 2010 to the usual reception such restaurants get from the young customers of downtown: they packed the place and raved about it. After the novelty wore off, it became easier to get a table, but the food seemed to tone down a bit. The building has a history: for a long time it was Streetcar Sandwiches, a great old poor boy house.
If the weather is nice, it's possible that all the customers will be outside at the sidewalk tables, under Carrollton Avenue's big oaks. Inside, the furnishings are highly reminiscent of family places in South Texas and Mexico, with the expected religious aspect here and there. The heavy wooden chairs were made by hand.
Don't be afraid to try something you've never heard of here. They're true to the cuisine, but don't vend anything that might bee too ethnic for you. If you like your Mexican food very spicy, you have to tell them.
| Attitude | 1 |
|---|---|
| Environment | 0 |
| Hipness | 2 |
| Local Color | 2 |
| Service | 0 |
| Value | 2 |
| Wine | 0 |
