“Are you talking about…? Yes, yes, I’ve been there, it’s the BEST Mexican place around.”
If there’s one ‘international find’ that I’ve bonded with people over – it’s got to be this one. Often times we can’t remember – nor pronounce – the restaurant’s entire name. But one thing is for sure – the food and experience here is so good that it remains well-ingrained in people’s memory.
And perhaps it’s because traditional-style Mexican restaurants continue to elude the Main Line. When we find an authentic spot, we appreciate it all that much more.
Taqueria La Michoacana has been situated in Norristown for almost 15 years. Vibrant painted walls; a warm, hospitable staff, and most importantly a decent selection of cervezas, tequilas and genuine cuisine, make this one of the most authentic restaurants outside of Philadelphia.
The downtown Norristown locale can be questionable at times (you do literally cross the tracks to get there). But La Michoacana features a parking lot and seems to be a protected destination within. If I trekked there with my nine-month-old baby, you will be just fine.
On a weekend evening, expect to wait in line for a table during prime dinner time, but no more than 15 minutes. Dinner for the evening included some usual favorites as well as some new tastes. Ensalada de Nopales (seen to right) is a warm salad comprised of grilled Mexican cactus, red onion, tomatoes, japapenos, cilantro, white cheese and avocado. Who needs romaine when there’s cactus available? Pulpo a la Mexicana features fresh octopus sautéed in butter, white wine and a red sauce of tomatoes, onions, jalapenos and cilantro, complemented by rice, salad and guacamole.
The menu is so extensive here that you might, like us, end up going for the Plato Mixto, which features a bite of all that’s good. Taste a chile relleno, tamale, enchilada, flauta, chalupa, as well as rice and beans. We already have a list of dishes to try next time – ceviche, grilled goat tacos and mole.
La Michoacana has been so successful over the years, that the owners have opened a similar, more upscale concept in downtown Phoenixville – Hacienda La Michocana. A glance at both the menus show they are very similar.
But even with a second place in what is a safer location, I’ll keep coming back to this particular Taqueria. There’s always a diverse crowd – couples having a cozy dinner; families with rambunctious kids; and Mexicanos, who knowingly come here for a bite. The traditional food, gracious staff and relaxed setting are all reasons why the buzz about this restaurant is still strong after 15 years.
Taqueria La Michoacana is located at 310 E. Main Street, Norristown, PA 19401.
