Cempazuchi Awards

Cempazuchi Restaurant Review:

Cempazuchi’s ambience is inviting, immediately drawing diners into the cozy, bright space with two dining rooms. Chairs are painted a vibrant, rich blue; folk art decorates the walls; and the floor is laid with blue, red and yellow tiles. Oil cloths with a floral design are draped over each table. Start the meal at this Oaxacan-inspired eatery with a festive cocktail (the drink menu’s dozen or so options include a Milagro Mojito, sangría and many margaritas), or a flight of tequilas or mescal. Next, wind into appetizers that range from ceviche to queso fundido (Mexican-cheese fondue topped with roasted poblano peppers and mushrooms or chorizo). Another winner? The Aztec-inspired soup. For the main course, look to (slightly) lighter fare like tortas or salads as well as fish tacos rolled in organic blue corn meal with lime slaw and chipotle mayo. The dinner menu is as eclectic as the restaurant’s interior, so expect duck tacos and standout moles spooned over turkey or seafood specials. Cap off meals with a slice of flourless chocolate cake infused with chipotle, a spicy anecdote to an already rich meal.