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| - "A good spicy challenge strikes a balance between flavor and fear."?Adam Richman
Carlsbad Tavern (CT) is a curious anomaly in the Yelp world; they're listed as "Mexican," but they're far from your average Mexican, or Tex-Mex joint. They're actually their own genre known as New Mexican Cuisine which relies heavily on the New Mexico's State Vegetable: the Chile Pepper*. Being a Spice-Crazed Pepper Head, CT is right up my alley as almost every dish here has some kind of fresh or dried Chile incorporated into it. CT was actually the very first place I ate when visiting AZ, and has become my go-to spot whenever I'm in town. Now, let's get to the food!
Habanero Cheeseburger- The 2009 Food Network Magazine "Burger of AZ" comes with the special caveat of "You order it, you own it"--because the spice level on this dish is pretty extreme. They mix in Habanero Chili Powder into the freshly-ground beef and top it with some spicy Jalapeño Jack Cheese. It's a good thing it comes with a side salad because you'll need it to help cool down your mouth as the heat continues to build in your mouth. The burger itself is excellent with a pillowy soft bun, perfectly-cooked beef and spicy goodness made this the best burger I'd had in a good while! Spice Level 8 out of 10!
Green Chile Mac & Cheese- One of my favorite dishes here at CT, as the creamy, melted cheese and seasoning of "Christmas" Chiles makes this another Chile Heads dream. The fresh Jalapeño flavor really stands out in this dish. Spice level 4 out of 10.
Prickly Pear Caramel Flan- Words can't describe how amazingly good this Flan is! It's so decadent that it melts in your mouth and coats your tongue in a tantalizing array of creamy, sweet and velvety softness that you'll keep wanting more. They should call this dish "Desert Crack." Spice Level 0
Service & Ambiance- As CT's name suggests, the restaurant is a homage to the famous New Mexican Caves, and the décor throughout is representative. It's kitschy, cheesy and gauche--but I love it! Bat posters, Chile Pepper light strings, metal Bats and an awesome waterfall are just a few of the things you'll see at CT! It's done in a fun, tongue-in-cheek kinda way and you can tell they don't take themselves too seriously here which is to be admired. I highly recommend dining al fresco here, as the patio is much more inviting than the dark interior. The service here is always impeccable, and my last trip was no different. Our waitress (I wish I could remember her name) was amazing--kept my iced tea full, got our orders right and had a great attitude and sense of humor.
Value- Pretty standard AZ pricing of around $10-15 for an entrée, but the quality ingredients makes this a good value in my opinion.
CT is a must go for any Pepper Head and for anyone else looking for a delicious meal in a clean, comfortable and fun environment. Highly recommended for spicy goodness--and that Flan!! *swoon*
*While a Chile Pepper is technically a fruit, culinarily speaking it is considered a vegetable.
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