Oola Mexican Grill, Taipei
One of the toughest cuisines to find is Mexican food. I take that back, there’s actually a few. I hear there’s one in Tienmu, maybe a couple in Taipei, and even on in Dansuei. I’ve been coming to Taipei, on a yearly basis and never had the urge to try Mexican food. Yet, when I return from Asia, one of the first things I do is head to a hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant. Often times, King Taco will suffice, just nicely.
So, when I heard that there was an Mexican restaurant opening near Gongguang, I rolled my eyes. Disbelief before has warned me of such folly. I knew that often times, cuisines get customized and modified to fit the palate of locals. Hearty savory meats with bold spicy sauces typifies Mexican food. Taiwanese people enjoy the delicate flavors found in fish, vegetables, and rice dishes.
Conveniently, it was my turn to suggest a weekend lunch/study place and Oola came to mind on a review from Hungry in Taipei. I ordered a carnitas burrito which I found to be pretty good. The carnitas, slow roasted pork, was seasoned as I remembered it ought to be from my LA dining experience. I’ve read other reviews which indicated that the carnitas was served cold, but mine was fine. I know Taiwanese are particular about their food and soups being served piping hot. In addition the salsa served with the side was chips was nice. It mimicked that of Baja Fresh, a fresh and health Mexican chain. In fact, I think Oola’s model is similar to the style of Baja fresh or Wahoo’s Fish Taco’s. But unfortunately, I am not a fan of Baja Fresh or Wahoo’s. I prefer the greasy burritos and tacos.
I liked the simple two story venue. I think they have an excellent chance to succeed with its location near the university. Their late hours will cater nicely to students along with the free wifi.
What to Order: The Carnitas Burrito What not to Order: The non-spicy salsa (with corn) I guess it’s needed for sensitive stomachs. Idea for Taipei.
Rating 2 Pigs Price Range 1 $/¥/NT
Oola Mexican Grill 台北市中正區羅斯福路四段136巷1弄3號 Gongguan Night Market No. 3 Ln. 136 Alley Roosevelt Road. Sec. 4 (02) 2363-1111 info@oola.com.tw
Sun-Thur 11AM-10PM Fri-Sat 11AM-11PM
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