"Just outside the city’s hectic downtown, Criollo is Enrique Olvera and Luis Arellano’s countryside Oaxacan food lab. Both chefs are big players in the Mexican culinary scene, and they’ve been working together for years, first at Enrique’s signature restaurant, Pujol, and now at Criollo, where Arellano’s Oaxacan background is on full, delicious display. Located in a colonial mansion with a spacious courtyard, the restaurant’s six-course tasting menu changes daily, but maintains a consistent emphasis on iconic regional Mexican flavors, and a particular focus on Oaxaca. Criollo’s outstanding traditional tamales, tostadas, moles, and stuffed chiles are prepared with a contemporary, produce-driven twist and paired with an enviable selection of Mexican wine, mezcal, and craft beer. [$$$$]" - Omar Alonso
