The Denman Challenge: November 2006

With fellow coworkers, we decided to head to family owned and operated Poncho's Mexican Restaurant for some tasty Mexican food and of course, killer margaritas. When we arrived, we found a very full and lively restaurant. Lucky for us, there was one table left. The music was Spanish, of course, and the room is extensively decorated with festive decor. To top it off, the live entertainment provides a cheerful atmosphere.

When: Saturday, November 4 2006. (7:30 pm)

We say: To get started, we ordered regular sizes of Poncho's Real Margaritas ($5.95). They were not memorable: in fact, none of us can remember what they were like. As appetisers, we shared the Guacamole Dip ($3.95) and the Queso Fundido ($5.95). The guacamole felt too expensive for the size of the portion but was tasty. The cheese fondue was ordered by T, who was hoping that it would be Queso - unfortunately it was nothing like it. The fondue consisted of melted white cheese that quickly became hard and inedible without a knife and fork.

We were hoping that the mains would be better. V ordered the Enchiladas Vallarta, which are filled with chopped jumbo prawns and red snapper ($13.95) and she did enjoy her dish. Unfortunately, nobody else was quite as lucky. A ordered the regular Enchilada ($10.50), M got the Taquitos ($12.95) and T got the Beef Fajitas ($13.95). Nothing was bad, it just wasn't bursting with flavours or tasting very authentic.

For desert, M asked the staff for Churros but was told that they did not have it. They are not listed on the menu at the restaurant, but they are listed on their online menu. It was disappointing to be at a Mexican restaurant and not able to eat this delicacy.

What impressed us was the live music and atmosphere. We had a great time, in spite of the food. We watched, amazed, as the hosts Kaeta & Poncho carefully prepared spectacular Flaming Coffees. And we all started clapping and singing along when Kaeta picked up a guitar and started to sing sad Spanish songs (not that we knew the words, but we had been coached on the bridge!).

Pro: Do go for the entertainment and the pleasure of a packed dinning room. If you are into flaming coffee, it's worth the detour.

Con: The food is neither bad nor good, it just is. Unmemorable Mexican fare.

Verdict: T says nay, M says nay, A says nay and V says nay. There has to be better Mexican food than this in Vancouver!