My family was fond of the Pizza Schmizza located in Beaverton, so we were saddened when it was replaced by a Mexican restaurant. However, that sadness rapidly evaporated once we actually ate there. Now, Santa Fe Mexican Restaurant is one of my favorite places for dinner.

Although the restaurant is in an oddly shaped location, Santa Fe makes very good use of the space. The interior is populated with the standard Mexican decoration and artworks, but in this case the result is quite personal, and almost homey. Similarly, although the menu is filled with standard Mexican fare — burritos, tamales, enchiladas — the food turns out to be much better than average.

Others judge Mexican restaurants by their tamales, or their chile rellenos. I like to order a dish like chili verde. In Sante Fe’s case, the chili verde featured large chunks of tender pork, in a green tomatillo sauce that didn’t rely on heat for flavor. Instead, the chili verde sauce had a depth and complexity that made the dish delightful. Particularly when paired with handmade tortillas.

Although I haven’t tried any of their margaritas, I can report that they make a mean mojito. My tall, ice-filled glass was dark green with shreds of pulverized mint leaves, and the flavor was refreshing and thirst-quenching.

If you want a show, order their Tequila Flaming Fajitas. They are doused tableside with Jose Cuervo tequila and ignited with cries of “Fire! Fire-fire-fire!”. It’s impressive. And the staff has always been unfailingly, and almost disturbingly, cheerful and pleasant.

Next time you are on the west side, and hankering for Mexican food, give Santa Fe a try. At 11900 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Beaverton.

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3. Best/Worst Mexican Food
4. Kinta
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