El Guanaco (South Hadley, MA)

El Guanaco is a family run Latin American restaurant in South Hadley Falls right on the main street. Nestled back from the road not far from the local police station, it is authentic Latin American/ Mexican food. The  overall establishment is a little run down and is in need of a remodel and TLC…but DO NOT let this discourage you. Their quesadillas are delicious and their tacos taste like they are from California with their zest and unity of flavors which is unlikely to find around the small city of South Hadley!

Tuesday/ Wednesday- Chicken burrito’s are set at $5…such a deal for burrito’s that are the size of your face!!! The tortillas are freshly used to wrap the burrito’s that are essential to the overall composition and structure to this powerhouse of authenticity. The tortillas are a perfect consistency to provide a solid frame around the filling combination of rice, fresh veggies, cheese & chicken. Order a side of guacamole with chips and you will have a truly authentic treat.   

Highly recommend to everyone in the area for a family meal or a take-out for one. I can’t get enough of the rich flavors and fresh food.

(5 stars *****) Mexican/ Latin American- Take out/ dine in- Catering

Note: (Tuesday/ Wednesday) Chicken Burrito’s for $5!!!

El Guanaco (South Hadley, MA): Latin American (Dine in/ Take out)

61 Bridge St
South Hadley, MA 01075

Riffs Joint: Fresh Food, Bold Flavors (Easthampton, MA)

Yummy and fresh, just as advertised. I tried the Alamo Turkey Wrap which consists of: Jalapeno Tortilla, roasted turkey, green peppers, grilled onions, pepper jack cheese and salsa with your choice of either chips and salsa or you can upgrade to either fries/ sweet potato fries. (When trying a new place always try their upgraded items, it might make the dish.) I recommend the honey mustard with the sweet potato fries....it completely made the side and was very tasty. The combination between the sweet and the salt, thrown in with the combination of the cheese from the wrap, can we say, "mouth watering." Reasonable prices, and a decent location with an attentive waitstaff. I would like to see this establishment branch out to either Mt. Holyoke College, South Hadley or Holyoke, MA. Overall it was enjoyable and I am looking forward to trying more on the menu.

Note: It is always a good idea to check with the staff for recommendations on dishes or sides. They work there and no what is popular with other guests and what is their signature dishes.

I give it (4 stars). [Sandwich/ wraps/burger/salads]

Riff's Joint
36 Union St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Dine in/ Take Out
413-527-8811
413-527-8812
http://www.riffsjoint.net/

Autentica! (South Hadley)

The Autentica Mexican Restaurant is a simple little place. Some tables in a small dining room, a few tables outside in nice weather. Service at your table, pay at the register--that kind of place.

First, the good. The service here is excellent, for this kind of place. The staff is very nice, well above average. Service is also pretty quick; both times I went, I only waited a few minutes for my meal. And prices are pretty good, with a number of $5.50 lunch specials.

Now, the not so good. Unfortunately, this is the food. I had the chicken burrito and unfortunately it was slightly cold. The cheese had not melted and the entire "dry" burrito was filled with rice (not cooked properly), black beans, pico de gallo, and a little bit of guacamole I paid extra for right at the bottom. Definitely not "autentica" Mexican. Their fish taco was pretty good, but when I got the cheese enchilada I made the mistake of getting the hot sauce. It had a bit of heat (not too much), but mostly tasted bitter. Not good. They have a pretty big menu, and some things on there may be great, but I recommend against this item.

Pretty good prices andgreat location with a great wait staff, the food was just unimpressive and not authentic Mexican food. Overall I would give this place (3 stars).

Autentica! Mexican Restaurant

9 College Street
Village Commons
South Hadley, MA 01075

(413) 315-6476
http://www.autenticamexicanfood.com/