Viva La Verdad!

 

 

Coming down from an “Iron Man” high last week, my friend and I lit out for La Verdad on Lansdowne Street. Even on a rainy Friday with the Red Sox away, Mexican rap was blaring, and rowdy patrons were shouting over the din. With my South of the Border exploits limited to one wacky Spring Break in Cancun, it’s handy to have a place to get my tequila on that doesn’t require frequent flier miles. I could get addicted to this place.

Prior to this recent visit, I enjoyed outdoor margaritas before the Amy Winehouse show at the now defunct Avalon (R.I.P.). The beehived parolee herself was holding court on the La Verdad patio, blankly staring at an untouched order of cocteles (read: ceviche). Based on the name alone, I’ll wager she thought her order was something that came with a straw. I can’t guarantee you a similar star sighting, but I assure you that time spent with the tequila-based cocktail menu could have you speaking with a Cockney accent in no time.

The Sweet Heat (Herradura Blanco, passion fruit puree, muddled lime and chili peppers) burns mild, medium or red hot. Medium provided an instant sear that dwindled down to a delightful tingle.

SenorRitas’ Punch, a cool aid of Herradura Blanco, hibiscus syrup and kalamanci lime juice, put out any remaining flames. Finishing off the trio was the Mexican Jumping Bean, an adult dessert of tequila, banana liqueur, kahlua and horchata (cinnamon rice milk), which tasted like rice pudding. If you’re hungover from too many shots the night before, I suggest you take your hair of the dog via the Michelada, a sassy sip of Sol cerveza, lime juice and a dash of hot sauce served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass.

Service from Delia, the nicest waitress in Boston, was muy buena. Whether you eat in like we did or use the take-out window, the authentic Mexican fare hits the spot. The guacamole and chips are almost too good, but stop munching and save room for the tacos. There’s no wrong choice, but I would humbly recommend the carne asada and duck confit.

Mexican wrestling masks, Day of the Dead skeletons, and other assorted tchotchkes make up much of the bare bones décor. It’s easy to take their motto — “like a night in Tijuana” — to heart and forget that Fenway Park is across the street; though the tons of televisions broadcasting the Sox might jog your memory. The only downside to my visit was the messy women’s bathroom that looked like El Niño tore through the place. Save a tree and use the Xcelerator, people! Nevertheless, Monday is my birthday and looking for some hot stuff, I’m headed back for more. Though I won’t be lighting my napkin on fire and stomping it out with the Mexican Hat Dance — seriously, I saw someone do that here once — I do plan to have a sizzling time.

La Verdad
One Landsdowne St., Boston
MBTA: Green Line to Kenmore
617-421-9595
www.laverdadtaqueria.com

Kate Coughlin is a freelance writer living in Boston.