Mike L.

Medranos is located inside of the Mexico Lindo Bazaar located just off Garland Rd. The Bazaar itself is a little hit or miss because of the lack of a big number of stores but this place is one of the little hidden gems located here just on the far left, past the juice bar. This restaurant is the epitome of genuine home cooked Mexican food. Prepared and made from recipes and techniques passed down from generations past and served with the detail and care as only a grandmother or mother can provide to her family. The chef here is the real deal. Looks like she's been expertly making dishes for her family for years and although she's only I been open for three months (as of the date of this review) the flavor lets you know she's no stranger to a kitchen. When we arrived we noticed the chef was preparing chicken tamales for the afternoon dinner and the smell was divine. I also noticed the kitchen was surprisingly clean with no food left out, no dirty pans/dishes laying around and the burners and floor looking like they were just cleaned. I ordered a carne guisada (stewed beef) dinner plate which came with Spanish style rice, beans and salad. My wife ordered a cheese gordita plate. To keep us entertained while our meal was being prepared, we were brought chips and homemade salsa and a sample of the freshly made chicken tamales. Both were simply AMAZING with full (but not overpowering) flavor and a pure white meat filled tamale that would give my grandmother's a run for her money! Our dishes were brought to us very quickly and as I started to dig in, I immediately was brought back to my own grandmother's kitchen. Hand made tortillas, quality meat with no fat/connective tissue and a "sabor puro Mexicano"! A Mexican Coke helped me wash it all down. My wife's meal was also just as carefully prepared and delicious. Oh and can we say inexpensive too? Our total bill for two dinners, two drinks, chips and salsa? Less than $20 with tip! This place is the real deal....its legit...and it needs our support to help it remain! Tip: This place is only open Thurs - Sun and follows the hours of the Bazaar. It's also cash only so hit the ATM before you arrive. Also don't let the place scare you. It looks a little sketchy from the outside but its SOOOO worth the adventure! Overall this was an memorable experience and I'm proud to say one of my best "diamond in the rough" finds that I've ever had. I am excited to share this place with my friends, family and other Yelpers and don't hesitate to recommend this place to anyone who really wants a great quality, traditional home-style Mexican meal.