Four reporters, four restaurants, and one tasty journey to unfold and unveil the new flavors to hit the Statesboro market.
*insert dramatic story music*
It was the Reflector’s mission to hit the new restaurants to come to the Statesboro community, which included: Del Sur, Nonna Picci, Roundabout Cafe, and Soul Food.
Myself being one of those chosen to embark on this journey, and having the keen taste for spicy Mexican food and strong margaritas that I do, I jumped to be one of the first to try Del Sur Taqueria and Cantina.
I went with a group of 10, so we inevitably waited a solid 15 minutes for a table to clear. Which, to me, wasn’t too bad considering they were packed when we arrived. We sat on the outside benches underneath the string-lit cover while we glanced over the front and back of the menu.
The immediate vibes of the place make you feel a sense of familiarity, particularly if you’ve ever been to their partnering restaurant, Gnats Landing. But with an identity of its own, the refurbished building features exposed brick, neon lights, picnic table seating, a cozy indoor area, and a walk-right-in entrance.
We started off with a round of drinks. The drink menu offers a variety of cocktails, margaritas, and 20 premium beers on tap at their full service bar. What really caught my eye was their beer flight option: Four 5-ounce beers of your choice brought out on a wooden paddle. I went with the Sweetwater Blue, Founders Day IPA, Angry Orchard, and the Hoptical Illusion.
I like to have a variety of a little bit of hops, a little bit of sweet, and a little bit of bitter. Their beer list is sure to have something for everyone, whether you’re a beer connoisseur or the average domestic drinker.
Being a very indecisive person, I thought I would never be able to choose which dish I was going to dive in to, but on this particular day I was starving. Thus, I wanted something that would really fill me up. Most guests at my table went with the taco dinners, with give you two gourmet tacos and a side. They have options ranging from ahi tuna, buffalo chicken, and even a veggie taco for you non-meat eaters out there.
I decided to take a path of my own and went with the steak taco salad. Let me tell you this, I am so incredibly glad I did and I will probably get that almost every time I go back. Featuring seared steak, sliced avocado, black beans, corn, pico de gallo and topped with a queso fresco crumble, I was in love. To say the dish was fresh would be an understatement. The array of delights left me very full, but not hating myself for cleaning my plate spotless.
The only thing I believe may turn students away is the prices. For the freshness and quality of food you get, it’s fairly priced. Then again, in the eyes of college kids used to $4 happy hour deals, it may seem a little pricey.
I urge you to treat yourself and give Del Sur a try. You’ll find a welcoming staff, laid back atmosphere, and some really good tacos. Located on the Blue Mile off South Main St., they’re open Tuesday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
At the end of the meal and the end of the day, we had a slight buzz going, satisfied taste buds, and one mission sincerely accomplished.