Mexican Dinner: The Mexican Barrel House!
Details
As most of you know, I love nothing more than finding a great new restaurant at which to have a dinner. I've been keeping an eye on the former Houlihan's location in Creve Coeur for quite a while, and finally a month ago the new Mexican Barrel House finally officially opened! Naturally, I had to check it out, and I'm pleased to report that the food was great and the service was as well. So now a dinner there is in order!
Cuisine - Given the name, it's pretty clear that what we have here is Mexican food! However, a look at their menu shows that they're not looking to be just another Mexican restaurant - they are definitely going for the gourmet end of the spectrum here. Not only that, but they have their "Mexi-Q" menu of smoked meats which isn't something you usually see at a Mexican restaurant! From the smoked wings appetizer to the Mexi-Q boards offering smoked chicken, pork, turkey, brisket, or ribs, along with sides and BBQ sauces, they are taking their smoked dishes seriously! You'll also find a nice assortment of appetizers, soups, and salads to start things off. Then the menu gets serious, with several tortas (sandwiches); their grill menu with assorted steaks, chicken, and seafood; their classics menu with gourmet versions of burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, as well as nachos and tamales. And then there's the taco selection with all kinds of gourmet tacos like deep-fried braised pork, chicken & chorizo, adobo chicken thighs, smoked brisket, mango habanero shrimp, and even a couple crazy vegetarian versions! And if that's all too crazy, you can order quesadillas, enchiladas, burritos, and tamales a la carte to keep it simple. And while not really big with this group, their drink menu is gigantic, so there's that! Bottom line, there is a ton of great choices here, most of which are a step above what you'll find in most Mexican restaurants, so you're sure to find something amazing!
Price - Despite being a brand new and fairly gourmet place, in west county no less, the Mexican Barrel House has managed to keep their prices quite reasonable, although I suppose a bit more than average for Mexican food. The vast majority of dishes are in the teens, with only a few items like steaks and large barbecue platters breaking the $20 mark. For food this great, I for one can't complain about the prices!
Other Info - The Mexican Barrel House is located in the former Houlihans, just off Olive Blvd at Mason Rd, and across the parking lot from Schnucks. Plenty of parking right next to the restaurant.
I'll be looking forward to seeing lots of my west county foodies at the Mexican Barrel House for a gourmet Mexican dinner on Monday the 16th!