Lakewood is really stepping up the game with some great places to dine. We went searching for one yesterday as we had some time in the afternoon since the Browns were getting slaughtered by the Steelers again.
Driving down Madison into Birdtown section of Lakewood we almost missed this place. Very cozy converted house. Expecting nothing but some kind of Spanish food based upon the name we had a very pleasent surprize witht he variety and apparent authenticity of the food. I only say apparent because I wouldnt know Columbian food if it hit me in the face.
Took a quick look at the menu and ordered a beer....they dont have a liquor license....most of the time we would be gone but really wanted to try the food so Colleen ordered while I ran for some beveages. NIce craft selection 4 blocks away at Waterburry beverage and they let you mix 6 packs so I got a variety.
Tried the Guacamole and cheesy corn appitizers. The guac was spot on with garlic and cilantro. The cheesy corn was really good and different. Chicken chuncks and some smoky bacon were in the creamy sause that was not overpowered by corn or cheese. They were served with THICKER corn triangle kinda like polenta. They were too thick for my taste
The arepas are a columbian "wrap" made of white corn and grilled. They stuff them with a variety of meats, beans, veggies sauces. I had the "mexicana" which was a spanish chorizo with onions, mushrooms and sauce. It was super flavorful. The red bean chilli was my side and it was equally good especially when a dollop of paprika sour cream was put into it.
Colleen had the Steak arepa which she enjoyed and I tasted as well.
You must try the homemade sauces. Garlic, chimicurra, ranchero, spicy peanut, pineapple.
I mixed the pineapple and spicy peanut to get a flavor fiesta.
Enjoy.