Worth a return trip!
Downtown Roswell is charming with its "alien-meets-kitsch" motif, but the El Toro Bravo stands out because it doesn't bother with the "alien" part. And it probably doesn't consider its bullfighter art "kitsch," either.

The decor is worn but warm, with a timelessness that makes it hard to remember that JFK is dead and so are half the Beatles. The staff is friendly without being intrusive, slyly refilling drinks and whisking away empty plates without interrupting conversation.

And the food is good. The menu offers the usual combinations of enchiladas, tacos and other Mexican staples, but it also offers a few twists. Sopapias, usually sprinkled with sugar and served for desset, pops up as a main dish -- minus the sugar and stuffed with beef. One dish offers pork "cheek meat," which is apparently considered a delicacy, and there are several variations on enchildas.

How good is this place? I picked "Incredible" though I don't consider it BEST Mexican food I've ever had. But it is worth a stop.

And afterward, go around the corner to the Mexican bakery that may or may not be affiliated with El Toro Bravo. You'll discover a whole new world of sweets.    [16 Jul 2003 14:03:52]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: beef-stuffed sopapias, chile relleno, any of the burritos

     ­Exiled Texan