For the over 21 crowd, there is a margarita and tequila menu that would make Jimmy Buffett and Sammy Hagar Proud. They also have an excellent selection of bottled Mexican beer and house-made Sangria. For the young and old, there are aqua frescas; water drinks brewed from hibiscus flower and squeezed from limes. Fab-u-lous lip smacking refreshment.
I order my favorite appetizer, cheese quesadillas and Keith chooses the chicken quesadillas. As a law, we feel that these must be served with a side of Ay Caramba's freshly made guacamole. Flavors of my first bite flow over my taste buds and a tiny mewing sound escapes from my lips. This gets me a raised eyebrow from the gentlemen at the table next to me. How can I help myself? Te tangy hint of lime in the guacamole compliments the simple combination of flour tortilla and cheese. Simple ingredients equal amazing results.
My chosen entrée, the tostada, arrives before I can gorge myself on more of the chips and salsa. Mounds of cheese, ripe tomatoes and crisp lettuce grace the ground beef and beans which sit atop a crisp corn tortilla shell. It is a "Harry Met Sally" restaurant experience. Keith's beef burrito weighs down the waitress' arm as she places it on the table. Nearly a foot long, the burrito is a large flour tortilla layered with strips of steak, beans, lettuce, tomatoes and cheese, You can also choose to have this filled with chicken or pork. This enormous package of flavor is not for the faint of heart. But, Keith is a big guy and I have faith.
As our empty plates are cleared away, I start to entertain the though of leaving without dessert. I'm already filled to the brim and the top button of my jeans is threatening to launch across the room. But, the waitress has other plans. Having sampled the dessert menu before, I was prepared for the task at hand. I chose the Xanga. A luscious piece of cheesecake, wrapped in a flour tortilla, then fried and rolled in cinnamon and sugar. Keith chooses to have the Bourbon Pecan Pie. Our forks are dueling before the waitress has the plates on the table. Both desserts are favorites. To ensure that I have sweet dreams tonight, I have the Kahlua Sombrero cake in a to-go container. Three layers on chocolate cake with toffee cream laced with Kahlua squeezed between. Just the purr-fect treat to enjoy at home in my jammies on the couch.
I gave Ay! Caramba three raised glasses out of four. The only burr in my saddle was that the delicious dishes are served on fancy plastic instead of restaurant china. This should not quench your desire to have your own south of the border experience. With a menu full of authentic Mexican delights, Ay! Caramba should be tops on your list. It is easy on the wallet and heaven on the tongue. If you don't have time to dine, take-out is always available.