Spotlight: Taléo Mexican Grill raises the bar on Mexican cuisine

July 22nd, 2008, 1:13 pm · Post a Comment · posted by Brian Martinez

By Mystery Diner

THE FOOD

Superb authentic Mexican cuisine, ranging from homemade guacamole-to-order to Smokey apple chipotle chicken. I had the guacamole and chips with salsa and a handmade, hand-shaken House margarita, as did the rest of my party. The guacamole was the best I’ve ever had and it arrived in an oval shaped bowl with huge chunks of avocado, a hint of cilantro and red onion. The chips weren’t stale but rather light and crunchy and the two accompanying salsas were not your typical red thin stuff.

Mexican fare throughout the O.C. is pretty much the same in my opinion, but not at Taléo Mexican Grill in Irvine. Here, it’s Mexican with flair and some added class. The menu is gorgeous, the food presentation beautiful, the atmosphere relaxing. Taléo strives to put its own mark on what has become ordinary in terms of Mexican food. At Taléo, the chef uses the finest ingredients and best of the best without skimping on anything. The spirits, too, are delicious whether you stop in for a quick beer and chips or a handmade margarita along with a full entrée, you’re sure to be happy.

THE SETTING

The interior is done in rich brown/beige tones and lovely wrought iron work, with a big bar area with Plasma TVs. The main dining room has wood tables and chairs, an open-air kitchen and large potted plants. The outside patio is a fantastic place to kick back and relax. There are rattan patio couches with comfy cushions and pillows, large umbrellas to shield the sun, and enjoyable music playing overhead that isn’t too loud.

THE SERVICE

Quick to take the order and make recommendations with a smile. Most of the wait staff seems happy to be at Taléo and they enjoy serving hungry clientele. Our waiter suggested the homemade guacamole and chips with drinks for a mid-day snack and we were glad he did.

Taléo Mexican Grill

Where: 3309 Michelson Drive

Phone: 949-553-9002

Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Website: TaleoGrill.com

How much: Lunch and dinner prices differ: Lunch Appetizers starting at $9 to full entrées starting at $10.

Did you know? According to TaleoGrill.com, the kitchen has 20 types of chilies and six kinds of Mexican cheese. The menu includes popular dishes from Puebla and Oaxaca.

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