The first time my fiance and I went to the Mexico Cantina we were anything but impressed. The food was over cooked, the sauces were runny, and the margaritas were just awful.

But due to business meetings and friend’s get togethers we’ve had to make our way down there several times in the past 6 months. And to our astonishment the food has been fantastic.

It’s a complete 180 from the first time we’d been there. The service was great, the margaritas actually tasted like they should. The grilled provolone appetizer has become a favorite, as is the carne asada.

I’m not sure if it was just a fluke that our first experience was terrible, but ever since it’s just been a great place to go. Granted it isn’t an authentic mexican restaurant. But at the same time I don’t think people go into the Pacific Place looking for authenticity.

I think this restaurant it definitely worth a try, as are the margaritas..in fact they were voted to have the best margaritas in Seattle in 2006. So that’s gotta mean they’re doing something right.

I wonder whether the previous reviewer is affiliated with the restaurant: he/she thinks everything is great, amazing, or perfect, has no real detail, and has posted 1 review across the entire site.

Anyway, I’ve had two fairly bland, gringo-fied entrees at lunch meetings. Second visit was a bit tastier though still mediocre. A bland fish taco lunch should cost $8, not $14.

And that’s not to knock all Tex-Mex or Americanized Mexican; case in point, Cactus and Anthony’s Pier 66 do much better fish tacos.

There are much worse Mexican restaurants, and much better ones. Keep walking to El Puerco Lloron or Guaymas Cantina near Pike Place Market, or Galerias on Capitol Hill.

I’ve never been dissapointed at Mexico. It’s not your typical “wrap stuff up in a tortilla and add beans” place. They have a genuinely unique menu. Light eaters… they do serve many 1/2 orders. Just ask. Even though it’s in Pacific Place, this is not mall food. And the servers are always perfectly friendly and helpful. The bar is a great meeting place. Great tequilas too!