Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Georgetown University’s Newspaper of Record since 1920

The Hoya

Fresh Tex-Mex Dishes Cater to Every Occasion

FLOR LEE FOR THE HOYA The salmon salad at Lauriol Plaza bursts with fresh flavors, as do many of the other Tex-Mex dishes that are served up to a satisfyingly delicious standard.
FLOR LEE FOR THE HOYA
The salmon salad at Lauriol Plaza bursts with fresh flavors, as do many of the other Tex-Mex dishes that are served up to a satisfyingly delicious standard.

3/5 stars

A tasty and satisfying culinary experience is only a GUTS bus ride away. Whether you are looking for an elegant meal with family members or a casual Tex-Mex lunch with a hungry classmate, Lauriol Plaza’s versatile atmosphere can very much fit the bill.

I entered the restaurant wearing casual attire, but I surprisingly did not feel out of place amid the other formally dressed guests. Clientele ranged from families and couples to friends and professionals, with almost all ages represented. The aesthetics of the restaurant helped to create this unique vibe: the building features large windows blanketing one wall, two floors of seating, a rooftop deck and an impressive mural covering another wall. It was clean and expansive, which added to the pleasant dining experience.

Given its popularity, Lauriol Plaza can get crowded quickly and guests may not be immediately seated. I put my name in upon arriving  Saturday afternoon and I fortunately did not have to wait long. After being seated, I flipped through the menu, which offered basic Mexican dishes, including ceviche, tacos, fajitas and enchiladas. I decided to order the chicken fajitas ($14) while my friend chose the salmon salad ($15). We wanted to start with a light appetizer to warm up our palates for the main course, so we ordered the guacamole ($5) to have with the complimentary chips. The waiter amiably served us and worked efficiently to take any additional requests.

The food took an average time to arrive, though the appetizers helped mitigate our grumbling stomachs. As expected, the guacamole was phenomenal — fresh, just the right consistency and lightly seasoned to perfection. The complimentary chips were also delightful, tasty enough to munch on their own. The chicken fajitas were still sizzling on the hot stone plate when it arrived. The dish also included warm flour tortillas, along with guacamole and pico de gallo. The tortillas in particular stood out to me because they tasted handmade and traditional, unlike the typical packaged tortillas served at Tex-Mex restaurants. In comparison to those thin substitutes, the Plaza’s tortillas were more filling and doughy. Although the onions were slightly undercooked for my taste, the fresh tomatoes and peppers nicely complemented the heartiness of the tortillas and chicken.

Because of its eye-catching interior and multifaceted atmosphere, the Lauriol Plaza can host any type of get-together, casual or fancy. In addition, there are many different options available on the menu, which is ideal even for picky eaters. If you’re looking for a Tex-Mex option beyond Los Cuates, take the Dupont GUTS bus and head to Lauriol Plaza.

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