With prices comparable to well-known Mexican chain restaurants, Emiliano’Z offers so much more.

Issiah Pimintel, with more than 25 years of experience owning restaurants in Mexico and the US, opened this Altamonte Springs restaurant in February in what was Shells seafood restaurant for many years. Always a good location due to ample space and a great patio with a view overlooking Pearl Lake, the space is now even nicer, thanks to the brilliant job interior designer Eduardo Perrone has done with it.

A very attractive bar/lounge is immediately on the right upon entering. The main dining room with its comfortably spaced layout offers views of the interior fountain as well as exterior water views from just about every table.

There are two private rooms, as well. The one off the main dining room seats 30; the large loft-like room overlooking the main dining room and bar/lounge area seats 50. These rooms are perfect for private parties from birthdays to baby showers, and for business meetings.

Kudos go to Jaime Grajeda. As the general manager, Grajeda sets the tone. He has hired and trained a terrific wait staff who are all friendly, love their jobs, and do whatever it takes to make sure that customers leave happy.

Executive chef Miguel Paz, a graduate of the culinary school of Oaxaca, Mexico, creates all of the traditional favorites we’ve come to know and love: burritos, enchiladas, carne asado, tostadas, chile poblanos and quesadillas are all on the menu, and all are quite good. And there are some truly fine selections we don’t always have access to in a local Mexican restaurant. Paz brings influences from the Vera Cruz, Acapulco, Puebla and Michoacan states of Mexico.

Fajitas, the most popular item on the menu, are served on an anafre, a raised tabletop grill. Generous portions of chicken, steak and shrimp sizzle alongside bell peppers, onions and yellow squash, all marinated in a guajillo sauce just might be the best fajitas in town. Of course, a plate with all the fixings—refried beans, cheese, guacamole sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes and fresh tortillas—accompany them.

Carnitas la piedad is an excellent expression of the culinary talent in this kitchen. Slow-cooked, tender and juicy chunks of pork marinated Michoacan-style, are served with grilled onions, Mexican rice, refried beans and fresh guacamole salad. This is a meal you will savor every bite of and will want to come back for.

Grilled mahi mahi was a most pleasant surprise for me. A beautifully fresh plank of fish marinated in a light garlic sauce was cooked perfectly, and served with broccoli and cauliflower with queso sauce, and poblano-style rice. A delicious and healthy choice.

Pollo al chipotle is Mexico’s answer to chicken cordon bleu. Thin chicken breast stuffed with ham, Oaxaca cheese, sautéed onions, mushrooms and tomatoes topped with a large chipotle pepper makes for a very flavorful dish.

Vegetarians have ample choices, such as veggie fajitas, enchiladas, quesadillas and my personal favorite, vegetarian chimichangas stuffed with spinach, mushrooms, peppers and onions on a plate of queso. Muy bueno!

Now let’s talk tequila. Emiliano’Z takes this fermented blue agave plant seriously. I have a new appreciation and respect for tequila after sampling some of their truly fine selections. Good tequila is very smooth and fragrant with no additives, and in moderation will not give you a headache. Emiliano’Z has an extensive tequila list with more than 70 brands. Flights are available—a great way to sample and compare.

Emiliano’Z makes some of the best and most beautiful margaritas I’ve ever had. The two stand-outs for me are the signature with Zapatos Gold, Grand Marnier, Amaretto and Don Julio, and the Roasted Coconut margarita with Milagro Silver, triple sec and Coco Lopez. Both are served with fresh orchids. A nice selection of cerveza (beer) is also available, as is sangria and house wine.
A display case of rare bottles of tequila is on the left wall at the entrance. All are for sale, including the top-of-the-line bottle of Milagro Especial for $1,000.

So come with the family, come in with a date—just come! Emiliano’Z is a most enjoyable and affordable night out. S

Emiliano’Z Mexican Restaurant
1012 W. SR 436 • Altamonte Springs, FL
407.637.2991
emilianoz.com

Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11:00am-3:00pm Dinner: Sun.-Thurs. 3:00-10:00pm, Fri..-Sat. 3:00-10:30pm.
Reservations accepted.

S