La Cueva del Leon
by Eric Rumble
February 3rd, 2010
Located in Mazatlan's Centro Historico, La Cueva del Leon features delicious Mexican fare at astoundingly affordable prices
Finding a truly delicious meal that isn't trumped by gringo prices can be a tall order in any Mexican resort town. This is what makes La Cueva del Leon (Lion's Cave) such a great find, especially given its beachfront perch on the fringe of Mazatlán's Centro Historico.
Nestled among a strip of restaurants along Olas Altas (on the same block as the historic Hotel Belmar), the small, thatched-roof patio is often packed because of its gracious, casual service and straightforward, wide-ranging menu.
Delicious Deals
The kitchen's handiwork is defined by three great characteristics: variety, quality and value. Nothing costs more than 55 pesos (less than CAD$5), and you can choose from a number of prep options for whatever anchors your meal—shrimp, fish, chicken, pork, beef or vegetables. Think shrimp smothered in creamy mango, a rich chicken mole, or peppers stuffed with soft, creamy cheese.
All meals are also served with fresh salad (cucumbers, tomatoes, onions). Perhaps the most pleasant surprise comes wrapped up like a warm gift: La Cueva del Leon uses blue corn to make their tortillas, a rare (and yummy) novelty in these parts.
The Best Margarita
Whereas many bars in Mazatlán make their margaritas with syrup or way too much citrus-flavoured soda, the bartenders here know exactly what makes this classic Mexican cocktail tick. Namely, a rock glass (as opposed to something bulbous), a healthy pour of quality tequila and real lime juice.
La Cueva del Leon is open daily for lunch and dinner, though it often closes by around 9 or 10 p.m.
Gallery (2 images)
Map
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La Cueva del Leon
166-E Av. Olas Altas, Mazatlan,
Contributors
Eric Rumble is a contributing editor to up! magazine, and a full-time freelance writer. He has written for up! about hunting wild pig in Hawaii, soaking up the Great Canadian Beer Festival in Victoria, B.C., and exploring concepts too infinite for the naked eye in Kitchener-Waterloo.
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