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El Sombrero Lives Up to its Authentic Claims

PHOTO COURTESY OF JUAN FERNANDEZ / EL SOMBRERO

A look inside the El Sombrero Restaurant in Warren, MI.

by Sheila Franklin

Mexican cuisine is one of my favorites and I admit I am rather particular about it. So far I have found many of these restaurants to be “American” Mexican and are rather bland imitations. I want salsa that makes my nose run and a margarita that actually gives me a slight buzz, just as it does in Mexico.

El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant is not on any main road in the Metro Detroit area, so you actually have to seek it out at 8601 Old 13 Mile Road in Warren across from the GM Tech Center. It is worth the journey. Juan Zavala and his family have been operating this cozy spot since 1991 and their fare is quite authentic.

Open 7 days a week, they have all the standards as well as some great dishes that include steak or seafood. Their daily specials include 3 enchiladas on Tuesday for only $5.95 and a yummy “Wet Burrito Wednesday” at the tasty price of $6.95. Beans and rice are always included and you can choose from 3 salsas to go with your complimentary chips.

I opt, however, for the spicy beef fajitas. The plate is huge! Filled with the usual beef, green pepper, and onion, it is engulfed in an amazing chipotle sauce and drenched in melted cheese. You also get tortillas, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream and it is worth the extra for a dab of guacamole. The tenderness of the marinated beef and unique spiciness of the sauce garner it 5 stars (or should that be 5 sombreros?).

It turned out that our server was daughter Zulema. She was quite attentive and charming and even answered all the taste questions I had, including the secret to those fantastic fajitas.

Some other plusses include a lunch buffet M-F for only $4.95, a full banquet room complete with mariachi band, and catering. Give them a call 586-274-0590 or visit them online at http://www.geocities.com/sombrero8601/index.html. And if you order take-out on Thursday, indulge yourself in one of their lime margarita specials while you wait. Ole’!

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