A few nights ago I met two girlfriends for dinner at a place in Newton Center called Cafe Sol Azteca. I grew up just a few miles down the road from Newton Center and despite frequenting that neighborhood for 25 years, I had never been to this restaurant! When it was suggested for our dinner, I happily agreed, as I am always eager to try something new (and support my hometown, of course).
Cafe Sol Azteca is nestled in the corner of a courtyard that is tucked away behind Centre Street. The same courtyard is home to popular bar, Union Street. If you walk just past the entrance to Union Street you will find an outdoor oasis which is Cafe Sol Azteca.
The weather was beautiful so we opted to sit outside on their gorgeous patio which was covered by bright red and yellow umbrellas. We ordered drinks and our waitress brought a generous helping of free chips and salsa to the table. Bonus! My mango mojito was sweet and refreshing. I can't say I tasted much mango, but it was delicious none the less.
For dinner two of us tried the tostadas oaxaquenas which are crispy tortillas covered in beans, cheese, chopped lettuce, tomato and avocado. They come with black beans, rice and a side of cabbage slaw. The tostadas were bursting with authentic Mexican flavors, as were the rice and beans. I practically licked the plate!
Our dining companion ordered the chicken fajitas which arrived sizzling (quite noisily!) and with guacamole, black beans, rice and a side of soft, flour tortillas.
I would highly recommend Cafe Sol Azteca if you are looking for authentic, bold flavored, Mexican food. They have all the fun, frozen drinks you could possibly want, free chips and salsa to start, and a quiet patio for relaxing and making the most of the summer weather. In addition to this location, Cafe Sol Azteca has a second location at 914 Beacon Street in Boston.
Who knew I could find a great place in my own neighborhood 25 years later?
