That’s exactly what I got at Tortas Ahogadas Las Originales – Delicious drinks, traditional tunes and exceptional service!  Guadalajara, Mexico is known for tequila, mariachi and friendly people, and owners Francisco Negrete and Gerry Robledo worked very hard to create that very atmosphere right here in Santa Clarita.  The restaurant is bright, colorful and filled with delectable aromas that will make your mouth water the minute you walk in the door.
My meal began crisp, fresh and with a crunch when served Flautas De Pollo.   Rolled Flautas filled with chicken, topped with lettuce and smothered with sour cream, green sauce and cheese.  It’s a perfect light, yet filling meal.  My next treat was Tacos De Pierna, which is a grilled barbeque style taco, served with fresh cilantro, onions and lime.  A local specialty at Tortas Ahogadas Las Originales, Francisco said it is a favorite on-the-go snack as well as something ordered with most meals and I can absolutely see why.  My first bite exploded with flavor and it was only highlighted by the fresh cilantro, onion and lime.  I must admit I will be visiting them again soon for another set of those tacos.  Pure perfection!

Bubbling and boiling over, the Molcajete came to the table and immediately I thought of a little volcano.  Little did I know, and with a quick history lesson by Francisco, a Molcajete is traditionally carved out of a single block of vesicular basalt or lava rock, and used to used to crush and grind spices, and prepare salsas, and guacamole.  In this preparation a Molcajete was used to crush and grind the chilies and spices that make the base of the dish.  Carne Asada, grilled chicken, panela cheese, shrimp, cactus, yellow peppers and cambrai onions are then combined with the special sauce to create a fiery and flavorful dish with exceptional presentation.  It’s a great starter dish in my opinion for a few people.  Along with great food we were served some delicious drinks.  Natural fruit juices are a customer favorite and after trying them I understand why.  The Hibiscus juice is sweet, yet smooth and has a hint of a brewed taste, especially good for tea lovers!  The cantaloupe juice was refreshing and I found it to be a palette cleanser as well as take some of the heat away, – absolutely something I would order on my next visit.

Lastly, we were treated to two very tasty treats.  First was Bionico, a must try featuring fresh fruit like cantaloupe, papaya, banana, apple, strawberries and kiwi topped with a delicious sweet cream and granola.  This is something that I would eat for breakfast every day and never tire of it.  The fresh fruits were perfectly ripe and all blended beautifully with the sweet cream topping and the granola gave it a bit of crunch for texture.  Followed by Fresas con Crema, strawberries n’ cream, which was a light and sweet cup filled with strawberries and whip cream, topped with a cherry – All and all a wonderful meal with a nice sweet ending.

So if you’re looking for something different than just the regular “dining out” meal, stop by Tortas Ahogadas Las Originales located at 23630 Newhall Avenue, Suite A in Newhall.  Taste the flavors of Guadalajara right here in Santa Clarita.

For more information, please call 661-259-0884.

Santa Clarita Magazine