La Hacienda

We happen to be in Everett this day and was looking for a quick bite to eat. This place was located close to Trader Joes.

First impressions say everything. The decorations are dated. The atmosphere feels like they were trying too hard to be authentic.

Second impressions solidify our review. We ordered a pulled pork platter with refried beans and rice. This platter was brought to our table in less than 10 minutes. The pork looked like it had been reheated many times or sitting under a heatlamp. Atleast the flour tortillas were fresh. The rice was dry and the refried beans were fairly tasteless. The pork would have been better if it was not so dry from the reheating.

What we liked:

• fast service and VERY large portions
• kid friendly restaurant with lots of space.
  

What we did not like:

• mediocre food and reheated mains.
• food was plain and had no depth to the flavour

Would not recommend this place. Food is bland, salsa is not spicy at all. If you want a meal that will fill you up then this is the place, but don't expect to get an authentic meal.

La Gloria Market

La Gloria Market 4140 Meridian Street, Bellingham, WA 98226-5576, United States.

We have been coming to this place for about 2 to 3 years now. Every time we go to Bellingham we have to stop here for their fantastic Mexican food. This market is attached to a small restaurant. The food is made fresh to order. Located in a strip mall beside a gas station, this place is unassuming from a distance.


The open kitchen is clean and inviting. The restaurant has 3 large tables and 5 small tables as well as a small patio area outside the market.


Fresh nachos. Not like the prepackaged stuff, these chips are freshly made. The side of salsa is refreshing, with a blend of chillies, onions, parsley and tomatoes. Delicious


Daily Special: Fish Tachos with a side of refried beans and rice. The fish tacos is made with a breaded and fried fish that is sliced and combined with tomatoes and onions.



Chicken Sope : I like this better when then put less cheese. The English muffin like base is layered with chicken and lettuce then topped with sour cream and cheese.


Beef Tongue (Lengue) Tacos : This is a must have! The beef tongue is tender and juicy. Served with chopped onions and a generous serving of parsley. Best with a slice of radish, a squeeze of lime and squeeze of their house red and green chill sauce.

Our meal including 2 drinks cost us around US$20. After coming here, you can forget going to the westernized Mexican restaurants. This food is light and flavorful, not like the heavy and over cheesy versions we were accustomed to seeing at other restaurants.

Our Verdict:

• Location: Not very easy to find. Located in a strip mall.
  
• Price: Bargain! For the same price you get more food and better quality.
  
• Large portions, excellent home made food. Judging by the Mexican regulars that come here, you know you are getting authentic fare!