Tuesday, January 20, 2015

LAS FUENTES (RESEDA, CA)

Las Fuentes
18415 Vanowen St.
Reseda, CA 91335
www.lasfuentes.com
Tel: 818.708.3344
$ (under $15)
Sun, 01/19/2015, 7:15pm walk-in
    (4.5 Piglets)

In 1982, Alejandro and Norma Morales decided to open an authentic Mexican restaurant called Las Fuentes, which translates to "the fountains." With bright orange-yellow painted walls, blue tiles, and folkoric art, you are transported to a Mexican hacienda. Since their opening, the Morales' has managed to expand three other restaurants: Sol y Luna, Melody's, and Senor Sol. All three restaurants offer the same authentic taste Las Fuentes offers. 

Upon entering Las Fuentes, a large menu is displayed on the corner wall. There are three divisions to the counter: one for ordering, one for chips and drinks and one for picking up orders. A number is given to you following your order. As you wait for your number to be called, you can inspect the salsa bar that is replenished frequently displayed near the pick up counter. 



The restaurant was overloaded with hungry customers just waiting to get a taste of their comida (food). Everything from their taquitos, burritos, and enchiladas are appetizing. And good luck finding a seat! The place is seat yourself and feels like a flock of angry birds in search for an open table. 



The salsa bar (ask for the containers at the counter):



Chips ($1.00) with a small guacamole ($1.25): Chips were thin and decent. As for the guacamole, this is probably the smallest guacamole I've ever ordered. I think this equates to approximately 2-3 tablespoons. It's creamy, flavorful, but just disappointingly small. There is an option to order a large guacamole plate for $7.75 but is seasonal.



The small guacamole:



Horchata ($2.00 small): Made from scratch. This creamy drink is one of the better horchatas around. The cinnamon is pungent and goes well with any of the dishes.



Taquitos, Rice and Beans ($6.20 for two): The taquitos are topped with cheese, sour cream, guacamole and lettuce. You can choose between chicken or beef. The chicken was a bit on the dry end. Probably wouldn't order again. 



Burrito de Carne Asada ($7.25) + "Gringo Style" ($1.30) + Rice and Beans ($2.30): My favorite dish. The burrito contains cut up beef steak, beans, tomatoes, onions, avocado and cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla. "Gringo style" refers to ranchera sauce and melted cheese. The beans are refried and the the rice is good and includes peas and corn. Altogether, the burrito is an explosion of flavors in your mouth and they don't skimp on the ingredients either. You can order the burrito alone. But, why would you when you can make the meal complete with the best sides a burrito can have?



Inside the carne asada burrito:



Overall, Las Fuentes is fabulous. The menu is extensive and include Mexican classics, such as quesadillas, burritos, tacos, and taquitos. Most dishes can be made as a combination with rice and beans for an extra charge. The salsa bar is elaborate. The prices are also fairly reasonable. The only downside to the place is the seating arrangement. Likewise, parking can be a hassle. Word of advice: try to come during off hours or order take out.  

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