Rosa Mexicano
Rosa Mexicano is one of two Penn Quarter establishments (Oyamel being the other) serving up modern and upscale versions of authentic Mexican cuisine. As I have referenced in some of my other reviews, having grown up in Southern California I thought “upscale” Mexican food was an oxymoron. I mean, why pay the high prices for food that was only marginally better than my El Taco de Mexico? Well, after my first bite of the Guacamole en Molcajete I knew I had this gourmet Mexican food thing all wrong.
Cost – $$$
Service – B–
Rosa Mexicano is one of the busiest restaurants in DC so service can sometimes take a hit during peak hours. I have always had good lunch expereinces but during the dinner rush, the restaurant usually gets jam packed and service is sometimes borderline acceptable.
Food – B
As stated above, the guacamole is very good and the only way to start off any respectable meal here. I have tried most of the menu and some of the entrees like the Alambre a la Mexicana and the tamales are great but generally speaking, the food is good and I am yet to have a subpar dish.
Decor – A-
Rosa Mexicano’s decor is a vibrant pool of pink, blue, red, aqua and orange with shades of everything thrown in. I know it sounds like a lot to consume but the restaurant decor works and I often find myself musing at the native Mexican masks and sculptures which are simple compared to the detailed walls and mosaics.
Feel – B+
If busy places with a medium-high noise levels are not your thing, you should stay away once Happy Hour kicks in. Otherwise, Rosa can be an upbeat and fun place but make sure you have reservations and are prepared to wait a few minutes to get a drink at the bar.
Rosa Mexicano is located at 575 7th St. NW. They can be reached at (202) 783-5522.
What’s the Buzz:
June 2, 2008 – Rosa Mexicano (Bacon and Blue) – Poor Rosa has been dealing with a ton of construction on 7th and F Streets during the past several months. But it’s location remains in operation and continues to serve high quality Mexican fare. For anyone that likes guacamole, Rosa is the place for you. It’s prepared table side with all fresh ingredients. I normally add some salt and a little pepper. Full article…
August 4, 2007 – Rosa Mexicano (DC Dine Blog) – Recently, Ryan and I ventured over to Rosa Mexicano for dinner. Prior to this visit, I had eaten at Rosa several times with my coworkers; however, this was the first time I went for dinner, and the first time as a reviewer. Full article…
Rosa Mexicana is a good spot to grab drinks, however I think the prices are a bit inflated. I mean, Tex-Mex is supposed to be dirty and cheap, right?
Yea, I think people go to Rosa to be more part of a trendy scene, than for the food. The Pomegranate Margarita ($8.50) is worth a try….but don’t make a habit of shelling out for multiple Suprema margs for $16 a pop.