You are greeted by the likeness of five life-size Mexican musicians and a sign that says “Open” outside Charras and Tequila.
That’s the Mexican restaurant on Highway 2 in Devils Lake. And four of us who made the 100-mile drive to get there on U.S. Highway 2 went away feeling it was well worth it.
House specials include a trio shrimp dish served with Spanish rice, lettuce, pico de gallo and guacamole for $19. We agreed with Ann Porter when she said it was “nice.” Bonnie Cameron was first to discover how nice the unusual low-slung coffee cups felt on cold hands. Before long, Susie Shaft and Ann Porter joined in. We all were enjoying that warmth after coming in from brisk weather.
The Mexican restaurant has gained a lively following in the couple of years since it opened. The food is good. The menu is varied and interesting.
And you get a welcome from statues of five life-size Mexican musicians standing outside the door. Once inside, the welcome is unusually warm. Waiters are friendly and helpful. There’s a choice of booths and seating areas.
ADVERTISEMENT
The restaurant is bright and colorful. There is seating at a bar and in nearby tables. Beyond the lounge area, there are more tables in a dining area. The place seems alive with its Mexican music and the lively welcome from staff members.
Somehow, the chunky Mexican hot sauce seems especially inviting on cool days.
Still, the menu seems endless with special dishes, including flautas, chipotle pork chops and chimichanga. There are combination dishes and vegetarian choices along with a la carte. There are dishes for children 12 and younger.
. . . And there is dessert. The restaurant, for $6, serves fried ice cream, flan, sopapilla and churros.
Anna Quinonez has been an owner-manager since the restaurant opened two years ago. She transferred over from a similar restaurant, which has become very popular in Bemidji. And she said there is another Mi Rancho Mexican restaurant in Bismarck.
Charras and Tequila
What: Authentic Mexican restaurant
Where: 210 Highway 2 West, Suite 6, in Devils Lake
ADVERTISEMENT
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. with 10 p.m. closing Friday and Saturday
Owner-manager: Anna Quinonez
Head cook: Jesus Q
Reservations: (701) 662-3030
Seating: 116
Report card: A brightly decorated Mexican restaurant with unusually pleasant welcome and convenient parking. Wide variety of inviting choices. Menu with pictures is easy to read. Good restroom facilities a plus.
Reach Marilyn Hagerty at mhagerty@gra.midco.com or by telephone at (701) 772-1055.
