Catching some rays, and tofu, at Taco Loco

Lauren Vane

After hearing a friend rave about their famed tofu mushroom burger, I

braved the crowds and muscled my way in to place a lunchtime order at

Taco Loco. After a day spent doing nothing but soaking up the rays on

my patio, I felt I was ready for a meal that would put an appropriate

end to my beach day. Where better than a place specializing in tacos

under the sun?

Every time I drive by Taco Loco it is hopping with people enjoying

a casual meal on the street front -- so it came as no surprise that

the line was out the door even on a Sunday afternoon.

I stood in the sun for a moment and pondered the daily specials

written on the white board out front. Lunging at yet another

opportunity to try a calamari dish, I instantly confirmed that the

Blackened Calamari Salad ($9) would be on my list. By the time I made

it to the front of the line I had decided on not one, but three

dishes to try, all for me. Everything looked too appealing to turn

down, so I just pretended I had two other friends who would be

meeting me for lunch. Yeah, they should be here any minute now ...

Though I had to repeat my order several times over the loud music

inside, the kitchen got the message and I waited less than five

minutes for my food. After the food appeared, the plates made a stop

at the condiment bar, where I was offered the choice of salsa or

chunky guacamole.

I started off with the calamari salad and was happily rewarded

with a salad that was much more than a starter. The calamari was

plentiful and covered in a spicy batter that was thankfully cooled

down with a bite of fresh lettuce doused in cilantro-lime dressing.

After the salad, I hit up the first of my two entrees: the

blackened mahi mahi quesadillas ($7.85). The fish was fresh in these

simple tacos, one packaged in a white tortilla and the other in a

blue corn tortilla.

Saving what I’ve heard is the best for last, I aimed my taste buds

toward the tofu mushroom burger ($4.25). The last time I had tofu was

during a one-week health food kick in college and I admit, I haven’t

been too fond of it since. I was apprehensive, but when I took a bite

I was surprised that, not only was it flavorful, I actually wanted

more. And in that one moment, my perception of tofu was redefined.

The burger had bite. It was spicy, so I added more mayo and pulled

the reins on the medium-spicy salsa I had been liberally applying.

It’s a shame my friends never showed up to meet me for lunch, I

think they really would have enjoyed the food. Oh well, I’ll just

have to schedule us another