Rosa's menu inspired by Monterrey, Sonora regions of Mexico

The end of a Fallbrook strip mall is an unlikely place to find exotic food, but at Rosa’s Mexican Restaurant one can order “Pulpo a la Veracruz” (Octopus Veracruz style), “Milanesa” (a special breaded steak) and a few other unusual dishes. The menu also lists traditional Mexican dishes such as enchiladas, tortas and menudo. However, traditional doesn’t mean boring – these are dishes packed with flavor. Family recipes, which are from the Monterrey and Sonora regions of Mexico, are used to create exciting dishes.

I enjoyed the “Machaca,” which is a hash-like mixture of finely chopped shredded beef, bell pepper and onion scrambled with eggs. Shredded beef can sometimes be a bit dry, but the eggs kept it moist. The dish was flavorful, but mild; however, Rosa’s homemade salsa gave it an extra kick. The Machaca was served with sides of refried beans and rice.

Although one doesn’t visit a restaurant because tasty chips are served, a flavorful plate of chips sets the tone for the meal. Rosa’s serves crisp chips that are neither too thick nor thin and are freshly made. I was fortunate to be served a dish of chips that were still warm and spiced them up a bit with Rosa’s homemade salsa, which, by the way, is available to take home. The red salsa is fairly mild and made with tomatoes and cilantro, green onions and black pepper. The green salsa, which is one of their most popular takeout items, is definitely the spicier of the two.

Looking for a Mexican drink? Rosa’s serves tamarindo, which is made from the fruit of the tropical tamarind tree, as well as jamaica, which has nothing to do with the Caribbean nation and is pronounced “ha-mike-uh.” This drink is made from parts of the hibiscus plant.

Rosa’s has been owned by the same family since it opened in 1994, but the current owner, Leonor Vasquez, has been proprietor for nine years. Her brother-in-law, who founded the establishment, isn’t far away and can be found preparing culinary surprises in the kitchen. Leonor’s husband and son also assist with chef’s duties.

Leonor enjoys visiting with her customers and says that there are a few who dine once a day and others who enjoy Rosa’s three times a week. The restaurant has room for about forty patrons inside and also has a patio dining area for those warm afternoons. On Mother’s Day a mariachi band will stroll among the tables and lend a festive air to the establishment.

Visit Rosa’s in Fallbrook for a taste of the familiar, or the exotic – it’s all waiting at the end of a Fallbrook strip mall on Mission Road. See ad, page A-11.

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Rosa’s Mexican Food

1075 S. Mission Road, “A”

Fallbrook

(760) 728-8006‎

7 a.m.-9:30 p.m.