Tamarindo Antojeria Mexicana
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (510) 444-1944
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Broadway
- Hours:
- Tue-Thu 11am-3pm, 5pm-9:30pm, Fri 11am-3pm, 5pm-10pm, Sat 10am-10pm
Editorial Review for Tamarindo Antojeria Mexicana – by Gina Goff
The Scene
Minimalist décor with exposed brick walls, a semi-open kitchen and dropped lighting sets the scene at this small restaurant. Dozens of tea light candles -- perched along wall ledges and atop sleek, blonde wooden tables -- cast a soft glow through the flower-filled space. Service is swift, friendly and quick to offer novices spot-on recommendations.
The Food
Casually dressed diners opt to select from either the rotating selection of large combination plates, such as the trademark mole de tamarindo with chicken, or the permanent menu of antojitos, snack-sized portions of traditional Mexican street foods. Three tiny house-made corn tortilla mulitas come filled with exquisitely tender, marinated Niman Ranch steak and melted jack cheese, while crispy cornmeal empanaditas are packed with a delectable mixture of shrimp, chile Serrano, green onion and sweet tomatillo sauce. Coconut flan drizzled in caramel makes for the ultimate sweet ending.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkThe restaurant has yet to receive a full liquor license, but a house sangria is offered alongside a short list of Mexican beers and wines from South America and Mexico.
Where to SitRequest a table near the front floor-to-ceiling window, which provides a nice view of 8th Street foot traffic.
User Reviews for Tamarindo Antojeria Mexicana
04/09/2007 Posted by hestrad
Really enjoy the food everytime I go there. I work in the area, so it is a great place to eat. Love the flavor of the meats. You have to try the "carnitas". You should ask for that plate, its not on the menu, but if you are nice :), they will bring you a plate. The place is not big, but the ambience is great. It does get busy, but it is worth the wait. Can't wait to go back and try something new everytime.
Pros: Quick service, great food.
Cons: might get crowded.
03/03/2007 Posted by ckyelland
Fantastic, fresh, creative Mexican cuisine - places like this are exactly what downtown Oakland needs to keep its upwards momentum. The sangria is delicious, and the plates are wonderful. My only complaint is the small portion sizes - it's never enough! The Botana de Pico de Gallo is the perfect balance of heat, sweet, and salt, while the Sopecitos practically melt in your mouth. You can increase the portion size to four servings for an extra few dollars - it's worth it. On the "Especiales" menu, the Cochinita Pibil (slow cooked marinated pork with fried plantains, corn tortillas, and other tidbits) is incredible. The dessert menu was a nice contrast of classic and creative, with selections like coconut flan, rice pudding, crepes, and a variation of bread pudding. Service was friendly and perfectly timed. I can't wait to go back! Tamarindo is TINY and they do not currently accept reservations, so to avoid the long waits, plan for an early dinner and show up when they open. Also beware of patrons who think this is a child-appropriate restaurant - it's too small for screaming toddlers.
Pros: Fresh, delicious menu selections; sangria is awesome; friendly service
Cons: Potential for long waits with no-reservation policy; parking can be problematic during peak hours;
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