With all this snow we’ve been having on the East Coast, don’t you just wish you could transport yourself somewhere warm, bright, and sunny? Picture yourself on a beach in Mexico sipping an ice cold margarita…throw some homemade guacamole and gourmet tacos and it’s picture perfect!
I have some exciting news for you…you don’t have to board a plane to get this experience! You can just head over to Distrito in the University City area of Philadelphia! I have been there TWICE now and each time has been incredible! Distrito, the creation of Chef Jose Garces, will transport you directly to Mexico City. Upon entering the restaurant, representing the traditional taxis often found in Mexico, the Volkswagen Beetle, you can find a VW Bug which doubles as a table that you can reserve!
Me, my sister, and my mom posing in front of the VW Beetle Table!
The entire atmosphere is bright and fun! With a neon pink color scheme, tons of unique seating (including some chairs that swing!), and a tequila bar…you are guaranteed to have a exciting night out! Because it’s a Tapas restaurant, you don’t have to worry about picking just one dish from the menu…you can try many different things!
Tacos de Pollo
The first time I went to Distrito, I went in the summer with my mom and sister during University City Dining Days. For $35 a person, we each got to choose two appetizers, two entrees, and a dessert. Between the three of us, we got to try out 6 appetizers, 6 entrees, and 3 desserts. Thank goodness they were small plates…talk about a delicious meal! Then for $15 extra, I added a three-course beverage pairing! One of my drinks was an icy Watermelon Margarita (watch out…they pour them strong!)
Watermelon Margarita!
The second time I went to Distrito, I went with some work colleagues around the holidays. Did you know that if you go for lunch…they have a $15 special for one appetizer and one entree? Just enough to satisfy you in the middle of the day and it doesn’t break the bank!
Fun Decor!
The number one thing on the menu that I recommend? Get the “Hurrache de Costillas.” The menu will describe it as “Short Rib, 3 Chile BBQ, Queso Mixto, and Radish.” To translate…it’s actually the best tasting flatbread I’ve ever eaten complete with mouthwatering short ribs! I minored in Spanish in college and didn’t know that a “Hurrache” is a “Flatbread!” If you go, I would definitely say to add one of these to your order.
PS. While the VW Bug table is cool, it’s a little secluded, fits only four people, and is right in the front window of the restaurant. I recommending dining upstairs on the second level when you go to experience more of the atmosphere!
PPS. Don’t forget to check out the bathroom when you go….it’s really cool and different!!
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