If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican food, and think that La Perla is overrated, look no further than Jalisco, 2207 E. North Ave.

When I went on Friday night, it wasn’t busy, but the staff was enthusiastic and happy to serve. The décor is very southwestern, which was a welcome surprise after walking in from the cold and windy winter outside. It made me imagine I was in a warm desert far away from the already cold Milwaukee nights.

Since I am a creature of habit, I ordered the same thing I always order at every Mexican restaurant, cheese and bean enchiladas, rice and beans. Although this is something that should be the same everywhere, I think it was above average at Jalisco. I consider myself a connoisseur of salsa, having a recipe of my own, and Jalisco’s salsa definitely added something to the palette. It had whole bits of tomatoes, and peppers that created a perfect texture.

If I had any complaints about my experience, it would be the jukebox. The second we walked in I could tell it would be annoying because no matter where you are, there is always that one person who plays songs just to be funny—with my luck that person beat us to dinner and played an R&B song that almost ruined the mood for me.

When I inspected the jukebox, I found that it consisted of a wide range of songs by all Latino artists. It blew my mind how the other people there found the most obnoxious song, and we chose the most traditional.

I’ve heard other guests say Jalisco has average margaritas, however, since I didn’t have any, I can’t give my opinion.

I can honestly say that I was so full from dinner that I could barely move—and I even had some leftovers for breakfast the next day.

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