Bites Nearby: Margaritas and Fried Ice Cream

Think the closest place to find authentic Mexican food is National Avenue? Not quite. Nestled right near the Interstate 43 on-ramp near Brown Deer Road in Bayside is .

Historical black and white photographs of Hispanic families fill the left wall as you enter the restaurant. We made our way toward the friendly hostess who seated us in a comfy booth right near the fire place. Frida Kahlo paintings are sprinkled all over the walls, along with many other Hispanic artists. Bright, colorful table cloths and friendly service welcome you into the restaurant.

As customary, our waitress introduced herself, and began by offering us drinks. In keeping with the cultural theme, we stuck with tequila and ordered strawberry margaritas ($6). I've actually been to Mexico and the margaritas at Los Paisa were some of the best I've had. Bright red and poured into nice big cups, a sugared rim and a half-slice of lime topped the tasty, fruity drink off. The drink menu featured over one dozen other different kinds of margaritas and tropical drinks as well.

Next we were given a basket full of chips and three different kinds of salsa. Most Mexican restaurants only give patrons one, maybe two, but Los Paisa gives you three. The first was pico de gallo, chunky tomatoes, onions and cilantro earned my vote. The second was a mild salsa, smoother and more with a stronger tomato flavor. The third was a light brown bean dip.

For the main meal, I decided to order my favorite, chicken enchiladas ($7.50). While they were good, I have to say I've had better. The platter came with two enchiladas, a side of beans and rice. Most restaurants I've been to serve three enchiladas and have quite a bit more flavor, and a sauce with more pizzazz. I plan to head back to Los Paisa though, and give another dish a try.

Finally, dessert. The fried ice cream ($3.25) came on a bright yellow plate, drizzled in a smooth chocolate sauce. A small ball of vanilla ice cream is rolled in crushed corn flakes, cinnamon and held together with egg whites. It's then dipped into a fryer and shortly fried. This gives the ice cream a crispy coating, and at Los Paisa it was served in a crispy, edible dish. They also have Mexican flan ($3.25) and a plantano borracho ($3.99) for dessert.

Hours:
Mon - Sat, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sun. 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.