Picante

I have dined at Picante for the past 23 years. As a vegan I appreciate they know the history of Mexican cuisine and honor the many plant based dishes instead of the fake meat and fake cheese route some places take. The enchiladas de la plaza can be ordered without cheese and really aren't dependent on it for flavor. Sopa verde is a distinctive soup made of sorrel, toasted ground pumpkin seeds, chiles and hominy. I wish the side was something other than sunflower sprouts which are boring and hard to eat. The two tacos/burrito fillings are more than decent and the tamales are also substantial and thoughtful with butternut squash and chiles in a tender masa made fluffy with spectrum vegetable shortening (I asked). Enfrijoladas at the weekend brunch taste just like those in Oaxaca and paired with a Mexican hot chocolate, if you do dairy, will transport you there. House made tortillas play a starring role and the resulting house made chips are absolutely worth the cost. Very clear menu helps you veganize most dishes with ease and they are very conscientous. Buen Provecho!