Barrio Costero - Nachos & Tacos
Ever since my first review of Barrio Costero in June, 2016 - I've returned a handful of times. I've enjoyed quite a few of their menu selections and have always been very happy with their beer selection. Even though they have a relatively small amount of taps, I always seem to find something new to try to go with my exquisite meals. For this round, I went with a Neshaminy Creek Coffee JAWN. It's a pale ale conditioned with coffee that is smooth, drinkable and yet seemed to pair pretty well with the food ordered. After enduring a beer release at Kane Brewing earlier in the day, this beer was exactly what I needed.
And in case you are wondering about my earlier review and haven't read it, you can visit it HERE.
Standing in line at a brewery for a can release will surely work up an appetite for delicious chicken tacos. The ingredients listed are chicken tinga, scallion créma, pickled red onion, and awesomeness. They come 3 per plate but you do have the option to add an extra 1 just so you don't have that awkward moment with someone else where either party fights over the last one. BRILLIANT. My only slight grievance is the sauce from the chicken began to corrode through the tortilla, but really who cares... use a fork and knife like I did for the last one and enjoy either way. I highly recommend these.
Look above... those are nachos. Look again... those are fantastic nachos. They aren't your typical nachos and I, for one, am VERY glad that this is the case. Gone is a plate full of 100 chips where the top layers get all of the toppings while you have all the stragglers at the bottom that get ignored. Here, nothing is ignored and everything gets equal opportunity toppings. The Barrio Nachos come with black bean and cheese, topped with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. They also come at 3 per plate but you do have the option to add a número 4. Eat them as is or mess the toppings around to create a beautiful mess on top... either way, I very highly recommend these. They are a great starter or easily could be a meal.
Because I was there on a Sunday between 1 - 5, I was able to partake in the happy hour, and even though there is a reduced menu, you will leave satisfied if you go before dinner. Next time, I promise to try out a margarita to go along with my Barrio Nachos. I'm very happy that Barrio Costero has continued to produce quality food with an always excellent service. The restaurant is very close by Dark City, Asbury Park Brewery, Kane, and even Jughandle so it definitely should be on your radar for a culinary visit. Buen provecho & salud!