I immediately liked Talavera Cocina Mexicana when I walked in and saw a painting of the iconic and gorgeous Salma Hayek – no, I’m not at all easy to please…
I went on a Sunday afternoon and the place was packed – typically perceived as auspicious and this scenario was no different. Let’s just say, Talavera’s popularity is well warranted.
Talavera Restaurant brings a taste of old and new world Mexico to Coral Gables by offering classic & contemporary fare in a sophisticated space decorated with an abundance of pottery. Talavera is actually from the same owners as Jaguar Latin-American Kitchen (one of my favorite restaurants in Miami). Although I am partial to Jaguar, I still thoroughly enjoyed Talavera.
The brunch menu looked really good, but we were more in the mood for a hearty lunch and well, that it was. Let’s just say, my bountiful lunch portion satisfied two of my meals for the day.
For Appetizer:
Chips & Salsa
Fresh Fish Ceviche
The chips and salsa were unbelievably addicting. I cannot restrain myself when it comes to chips and salsa – and with these, there’s a general consensus that once you have one, you will not be able to stop. The ceviche was also to die for – I believe I might’ve licked the bowl.
For Lunch:
I could not resist trying one of their famous moles. I have actually never had one before. Although now I know it not my cup of tea, I am glad I tried it. I liked it; I just found it difficult to have a lot of it. For those of you that did not know, mole is made with Mexican chocolate, along with a variety of herbs, nuts, spices, dried fruit, and chiles. Therefore, it is fitting to say that the taste is probably like nothing you have ever tasted before.
Organic Chicken Breast Mole Poblano
I had some of my sister’s Enchiladas Suizas and they were packed with flavor. It was a big portion, so I of course had to finish it for her. The dish tastefully amalgamated chicken, poblano cream sauce, melted cheese, crema fresca, and cilantro.
Enchiladas Suizas
My parents had the Cochinita Pibil Tacos and loved them. Beware, they are a lunch special. I cannot locate them on the regular menu on their site.
Cochinita Pibil Tacos
I really enjoyed the vibe and food Talavera had to offer. Next time I go, I will not have the mole, but I will try something new!
Caylin Jimenez 
Love both of those restaurants. Thanks for the reminder.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Caylin. We just recently at at Ayala era and I too had to try the mole. While I thought everything we had was quite good, like you, mole wasn’t for me. I felt it was too overpowering, plus there was way too much of it. Even so, I would gladly go back to eat there.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I thought maybe it was just me that felt that way! I am glad I am not the only one. I just found out they have a pretty popular Taco Wednesday (I guess Taco Tuesday was too mainstream for them, haha) that is supposed to be good.
LikeLike
Very cool
From: Caylin Jimenez Reply-To: Caylin Jimenez Date: Monday, October 1, 2018 at 5:07 PM To: Carlos Jimenez Subject: [New comment] Talavera Cocina Mexicana â Classic & Contemporary Cuisine in Coral Gables
Maria commented: “Hi Caylin. We just recently at at Ayala era and I too had to try the mole. While I thought everything we had was quite good, like you, mole wasnât for me. I felt it was too overpowering, plus there was way too much of it. Even so, I would gladly go back “
LikeLike
Sorry, my phone changed Talavera to Ayala era. I meant to say “We just recently ate at Talavera”.
LikeLiked by 1 person