My New Favorite Mexican Restaurant

I recently had a heavenly experience on the bustling corridor of Seventh Street, which is probably the liveliest street in all of Allentown. Among the things thriving on this road are the delicious little ethnic restaurants that offer great flavor at a low price. (You may have noticed many bloggers have bestowed praise on the eateries lining this block.)

Back to my story...a group of us ventured out in search of Mexican food. Rather than go to the usual spot, we wanted to try Taqueria Los Amigos. It's just a little storefront, painted red with a hand-painted sign. Step inside, and it's a lovely, vibrant little shop, painted a warm orangey shade with a single counter for ordering, and stocking up on condiments.

As it was Tuesday, we happened to be there for the deal of a lifetime: $1 tacos on Tuesdays. Yes, One Dollar.

The taqueria offers many taco options: chicken, beef, two different kinds of pork, sausage, etc. I ordered three tacos - 2 chorizo (spicy Mexican sausage) and one chicken. The shells were corn soft tacos, which tasted homemade and deliciously tender. Each taco was simple - just shell, meat, onion and cilantro. The chorizo had just the right amount of spice, and luckily, the chicken was flavorful and mild to offset my other order.

My dinnermates also ordered tacos and loaded them up with pico de gallo, made with fresh tomatoes, cilantro, onions and jalapenos. Dinner came with a free basket of chips, which were lightly greasy from just being fried. They were excellent with some homemade red or green salsa.

One dinnermate ordered a chicken burrito - which was the size of his head and filled with meat, tender rice and slightly smoky refried beans. He could not finish it and took half of it home. A great deal at $5.

The shop also has Mexican sodas (Jarritos brand) and all-natural juices and nectars (like mango and guava). Despite being called a taqueria, Los Amigos also makes enchiladas, tostadas, torta, sopes, and more. Everything we tasted was delicious and authentic. I would absolutely return on dollar taco night or otherwise.

Taqueria Los Amigos

located on the east side of Seventh Street, north of Liberty

Hours - restaurant closed at 8 on taco night, so stop by early

(address and phone number could not be located)

*above image is a painting by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo