New Paltz Tacos

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Mexi-Cali Blue
87 Main Street, New Paltz, NY

This little taco shop located in the heart of New Paltz on Main Street grabbed my attention with the catchy slogan "Fresh Fast Food. No Freezers, No Fryers, No Cans".

I had to try it.

Stopping in for an afternoon snack, my sister ordered a grilled steak taco and my mom and I settled for the traditional chicken taco. I stood at the counter watching the son of the owner (who'd attended culinary school) expertly grill juicy strips of steak and chicken. Next to the meat the BLUE corn tortillas were warming (the nomenclature of Mexi-Cali Blue thus revealed). Beyond the delicious taco, the real treat of Mexi-Cali Blue is the assortment of hot sauces available. Opt for the traditional Frank's Red Hot hot sauce, or venture into the world of mango, apricot and lime, jalepeno and black pepper, or even blackberry infused hot sauce to spice things up a little.

Great people, great food. I will definitely return.


Gaby's Cafe, Cocina Continental & Mexican Grill
150 Canal St., Ellenville, NY

Despite the tumbleweed rolling down the empty streets of Ellenville, NY on a Sunday afternoon, the lure of Mexican cuisine drew us into Gaby's Cafe. More of a small town Mexican joint than a cafe, Gaby's adequately satisfied our hunger. With the majority of the restaurant employees huddled around the TV to watch the US vs. Mexico soccer game, we were still promptly seated with complimentary tortilla chips and salsa. We ordered the table-side guacamole special and one order of chicken tacos (includes three tacos). The guacamole, although ordered spicy, was slightly too mild for our liking, but certainly packed a punch. The tacos were served already topped with pico de gallo and guacamole. We all agreed that the table-side guacamole was far better than the guac that came on the tacos (good thing we had some leftover!). Although the soft-corn tortillas did not compare to those of Mexi-Cali Blue (or even the store bought corn tortillas we use at home), the delicious white meat chicken still made for a good taco.

I don't think I'll be rushing back to Gaby's Cafe, but if you drive by, try it! Better hope that a soccer game is on because it creates a great atmosphere.

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