Daddy and I have experienced a slight drought in Date Night activities, but I am happy to report that we are back on schedule. We recently visited Cafe Coyote in Old Town and had a marvelous experience to say the least. Food, fun and finally a chance to talk about our week.
We’ve walked past this place many a times, and were always intimidated by the line that wrapped around the corner. Yes, this usually is a good sign that the place is worth trying out, but we were used to our usual Old Town spot The Old Mexican Cafe. Auntie Chicka had recently visited Cafe Coyote for a date night and posted pics of the food on Facebook. Of course everything look delicious, so it was on the top of our list to try. Food porn works people!
Anyway, as you can see it was pretty crowded for a Friday night. There was a long line this time, but because we only needed a table for two (no baby) and we weren’t picky about where to sit, we were seated right away. At this point we were so hungry…I didn’t even pay attention to the waiters or customer service. I can tell you that it was okay…not the best service ever and not the worst. I for one actually enjoyed not being bothered too many times during our meal. We were both just happy to be out. So naturally, we were seated right below this sign! A sign for me that it was okay to have a drink! Besides, if I’m doing any kid of review about this place, I better make sure they practice what they preach!
Although we were trying to be on a budget, Cafe Coyote turned out not to be such a budget friendly date night. I’m sure there are ways around it, but I think the fact that we both had huge appetites was reason enough to blame for the nearly close to $60 meal for two. Still not bad, but we were hoping for less. Still, it didn’t matter…you can’t put a price on a good time with your spouse!
Daddy ordered the huge horchata, and yes, I ordered the cheapest, but “BEST MARGARITA IN TOWN!” The Gold Margarita: Gold tequila, triple sec, sweet & sour & a splash of fresh lime juice for $6.95! Seriously, both drinks were delicious – smooth and sinful!
We ordered the Taquito Sampler Platter which came with chicken, potato and beef toquitos and side of chipotle salsa for $9.95. I wasn’t too impressed with the beef and chicken as they were a little dry, but the potato was surprisingly scrumptious! And, because we were starving, I realized after the plate was empty that I forgot to take a picture of it. I did, however, manage remember to take a photo of our main course, even after savoring my Gold Margarita. We both ordered the carnitas tacos that came with rice, beans and all the taco fixings.
I’m drooling as I write this, even though unfortunately, I was not impressed again…the carnita’s were very dry even with the salsa. I went to On the Border two days later to have the mini carnitas street tacos and sad to say, they were much better. Anyway, that doesn’t stop me from wanting to come back and try something else, especially since the margarita was too darn delicious!
Cafe Coyote has a lot going for it – location, authenticity, decor, food, margaritas! What I really enjoy about this place is the atmosphere and the fresh smell of flour tortillas that can be purchased right off the street. Mmmm…they are amazing with butter and a dash of cinnamon! I personally love the business of the place, there is a lot to see. It’s a huge restaurant with private dining areas, great for a large crowd or an intimate date one like ours. I felt like I was in Mexico or at least not in San Diego for a moment. The mariachi band reminded me of my Abuelita; and although Daddy didn’t buy me a rose (seriously I didn’t want one, my margarita was enough) I loved knowing that someone was selling them to the customers. Somewhere that day a man, gave a rose to his woman for the first time. My heart is tickled just thinking about it!
Old Town is perfect for a romantic or casual date night. We went with the later, especially since it was last minute. On our way back to the car we stopped in the Living Room Cafe & Bistro for a little pick me up, before picking up Pinky! You must try the Mexican Mocha and the Milky Way Lattes!
Cafe Coyote, we will be back…please make sure the carnitas are not dry this time. Thank you!