Dallas Restaurant Review: Lazaranda Modern Kitchen and Tequila

I recently made my first trip to Lazaranda Modern Kitchen and Tequila hoping to find some great Mexican food. If you haven't noticed, I love Mexican food. (Spoiler alert: I was not disappointed.) Owners Mario Letayf and Chef Antonio Marquez had recently made a few changes (it was previously named Lazaranda Seafood Grill, they added a new outdoor sign outdoors, made a few cosmetic changes) so I was really looking forward to my inaugural visit. And by the way, "lazaranda" is a Spanish word for the metal skillet used to grill delicious food over an open fire.

It's not your typical taco joint. The cuisine is what you might find at Chef Marquez' own home if you went for dinner at his casa -- and I think you'll be impressed.

Lazaranda is located along Addison Walk at 5000 Belt Line Road Suite 850, Dallas, TX 75254 -- just down from Memphis and Aw Shucks. 972-866-8900.

Hours: Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday noon to 11 p.m., Sunday noon to 9 p.m.

I started out in the bar noshing on some chips and salsa and tasting a great margarita. Then someone passed an appetizer of Panela Cheese Zarandeado that immediately grabbed my attention. It was Panela cheese marinated in chipotle sauce and spices, then grilled and served with chips and guacamole. I only tasted the cheese and it was a little fiesta that I would order again (and not share). When I say that I'm not going to share something, that's 5 stars in my book.

I enjoyed a delightful tasting menu during a recent media dinner so I was able to sample many of the restaurant's featured dishes. The Aztec Shrimp Ceviche Mini Tostada (shrimp/tilapia marinated in key lime and spice, grilled cactus leaves, pasilla pepper, tomato, cilantro, onions) was delicious and beautifully paired with the Nobilio Sauvignon Blanc.

The best entree on the menu without a doubt was Bolo's Mahi. Grilled mahi atop white rice with fresh avocado, olive oil, roasted garlic, jalapeno slices and crushed chile de arbol. I could almost hear Dr. Oz standing behind me saying, "Yes, amiga; this is what I've been talking about." It was light and delicious and the tastiest dish on the menu. $20.95 and worth every penny.

The Chocolate Tamale was the perfect dessert. It was even better when served with Kahlua Midnight -- a 70 proof blend of rum and delicious black coffee liqueur. Oh yeah, it's midnight somewhere!

I will definitely return to Lazaranda and bring my amigos!

It's not your typical Tex-Mex taco joint; it's very authentic.

Great menu featuring ceviches, tostadas, seafood, meats and high-end tacos like lobster and rib eye.

Great date-night destination

Meeting room/private dining for 20 or up to 43

Easy-access location: Southwest corner of Tollway @ Beltline Road

Would order Panela Cheese appetizer, Grilled Mahi and any margarita on the menu -- especially the Vampira.

Save room for the Chocolate Tamale for dessert!

Full bar; nice wine list

Best Tacos in DFW

Best Enchiladas in DFW

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As is common in the industry, the writer was provided with complimentary food and beverages for the purpose of the review. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure.