I mentioned last time that K & I went to La Carnita (Central branch at 106 John Street) but wasn’t able to take photos because of the lighting and of our grumbling stomachs. Well I brought my crew along to celebrate my birthday early and man this place is so good.

We had a reservation hiccup (for some interesting reason by booking was not penciled in), but we got in nonetheless. We got this nice space for groups in the middle of their second floor dining area. Since it was a merienda get-together I was able to take photos (finally!) and I tell you these are better eaten than looked at. Seriously.

The crowd favourite happened to be the mexican corn and the Saturday special (pork belly). SO GOOD. DAMN RIGHT.

Tortilla Chips with w/ ancho chili powder & sides of Guacamole, Corn Salsa, Spicy Bean & Smoked Queso

left: Mexican Street Corn – Mexican crema, queso anejo, arbol & ancho chili powder; Right: Saturday daily special (pork belly with spiced peanut brittle)

left: Carnita – Confit pork, jalapeño sauce, mango salsa, queso añejo, guacamole, chicharron, cilantro; right: Beef Cheek – Ancho braised cheek, lime avocado, green cabbage, pickled jalapeño & crispy shallots, queso anejo, charred pepper sauce

left: Crispy Cotija – Crispy cotija cheese, cauliflower & pinto bean, pickled carrots, chipotle sauce, green onion & cilantro; right: Pollo Frito – Crispy chicken thigh, peanut mole,honey, Rossy’s hot sauce, green cabbage & salsa fresca