Mile High Dining went to what felt like the center of social life in Denver on Larimer Street this last weekend. Surrounded by lots of people and music, we ate at Tamayo, a long-established upscale Mexican restaurant. Opened in 2003 by chef/owner, Richard Sandoval who also operates the newly opened Toro in Cherry Creek, Tamayo serves elevated small dishes like tacos and larger entrees including steak and salmon. The weather turned chilly so were unable to try the rooftop patio and chose an inside table this visit.
The food selection includes starters, taco boards, entrées, and desserts. For the venturesome, there’s a list of about 100 different tequilas. We chose the traditional guacamole, taco board, salmon entrée, and two margaritas.
The guacamole starter includes house made chips and a small dipping sauce. The presentation of the guacamole is very pretty with the watermelon radish and cilantro on top. A very good way to start the meal.
The kitchen got confused and brought out the salmon entrée first before the taco starters. The salmon plate had broccolini, cauliflower purée, candied almonds and looked very good. The friendly server even asked about the lack of tacos. The salmon was good but was slightly cooked too much for our taste.
The taco board finally arrived with three mahi-mahi tacos while we were still eating the entrée. The three small tacos with an avocado slice, lots of cilantro, cabbage and a chipotle sauce. Sadly, it was just too much food delivered all at the same time to enjoy.
The skinny (Flaco) margaritas were delicious with dominate lime flavor and a great way to finish the meal.
My ratings are: It’s OK, Good, Very Good, and Excellent.
The verdict ⚖️ for Tamayo is Good. The food was very good but hampered by poor kitchen service.
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