La Unica. The restaurant here has stayed in business for quite a long time considering the location. Many Huntersville residents may recall the dancing dragon guy on the corner promoting the old Chinese chop suey restaurant and then the prior Mexican restaurant about three years ago.
It was good seeing the high ranking reviews of this little restaurant. They were making it and they seemed to be sticking around for a long time. I've made several lunch breaks here with coworkers and friends and after seeing the 4-5 stars, I needed to write my review.
The reviews of this place seem so fanatical and raving that it would seem as if their taco shells were made of gold. My review may come as a surprise to many. Let me start with their service; excellent and speedy. There's nothing wrong with their service and they will seat you as soon as a table is open or accommodate a table to fit that extra person. Now to the food.
Everyone I know usually comes here for their lunch specials which are a good deal. Although, there are many other restaurants that serve more and the same quality for the buck; $6.95 is the usual price for their combo meals and drinks will bring that up to $9 almost. A little high for their lunch portions compared to the other competition around the area. One of the things I wished they did here though was put their authentic tacos in a combination style dish on their menu. They offer each one by taco, which may make some leery as they don't think they are getting a deal compared to their Tex-Mex combinations for lunch.
What really drew me in to La Unica was the user photo of their tacos carne asada. I had a fortunate opportunity to eat an authentic tacos carne asada at my friend's place. His grandfather used to sell these delicious tacos out a stand to the local workers back home. Once again, I was expecting the best according to all these reviews. I was highly disappointed. Asar in spanish means to roast; in this case, mesquite, flame roasted. The meat lacked that very basic flavor. Seasoning wasn't there either; no hint of rock salt or lime. It was skillet or bistec cooked. There's a difference that everyone should taste before calling me snobby.
The corn tortillas and garnishes were right on par with what I was expecting though. Then that was it. No guacamole on the side, salsa, or lime wedges. I had to ask for the limes, which brought a smile to the waiter and gladly brought out a handful. After finishing my meal, I was thoroughly disappointed.
I thought that Huntersville had the hidden gem of Charlotte. A place that made an hour drive worth it. That's just not here.
*I'll try the Indian location sometime.