La Casa Lopez Mexican Grill

By Denton Gerow

I got spoiled in California with fresh, family made Mexican food.  I found some okay places around but none of them could match up in flavor or that 'you're home' kind of hospitality I had come to enjoy.

Then I found La Casa Lopez Mexican Grill, 3028 Healy Dr. Winston Salem.  The Lopez family runs this corner restaurant in the strip plaza just off of Stratford Rd.    They make you feel like you are a long lost friend the first time you walk in the door and it only gets better from there.  They respect when you need some quiet time and they make a large group feel like they each are important to them.

Their menu has something for everyone.  From the best ChoriQueso dip to vegetarian options, to seafood and a wide range of classic dishes, everything here that I have tasted has been delicious.

Among of my favorites to order are the Lunch Special Nachos, a pile of chips, with the meat of your choice, covered in cheese dip, homemade guacamole, salsa and creme fresh with lettuce and tomatoes.  

If you are hungry, can't make up your mind, or want to split something, try the Special Dinner.  It takes up to three plates to be delivered, You get a burrito, chalupa, chili relleno, beef enchillada, beef taco, refried beas, and rice  All for $10.49.  

On a quest for trying different flavors I once ordered the Burrito a la Roqueta.  Two burritos filled with tender delicious carnitas (pork), covered in verde sauce and served with pico de gallo and rice.  This dish is awesome and I highly suggest it.

On a warm day or nice night, be sure to ask to sit on the patio, smoking allowed.  Oh and don't forget they have inexpensive draft beers.

I don't miss those spots in California anymore.

Welcome New Contributor Denton Gerow!

Denton was born in Charlotte, but has lived all over the eastern seaboard and in California.  An avid Foodie, he prefers to eat at local joints, hole in the walls and the oft missed.  Denton loves to cook and share his passions for food, cigars, beer and more.

Restaurant Review: Monte de Rey in Walkertown

3018 Old Hollow Road, Walkertown, NC 27051  336-595-3033  

Monte de Rey opened in Walkertown only a couple of months ago, but it is quickly becoming a favorite spot for our family! The restaurant itself is spacious and brightly decorated, with amazing colorful scenes handpainted on the tables and chairs. The staff is super friendly and engaging. The menu is extensive.

As any good Mexican restaurant does, we are quickly delivered a basket of chips and a large bowl of salsa. I love that we don't have to ask for more salsa, there is usually someone walking around and refilling as needed. The salsa is tasty; just the right amount of heat so yummy!

I've had the Pollo Loco a couple of times. Delicioso! I've also had the spinach quasadilla, which is better than I've had elsewhere.

My girls like being called Princesa every time we visit. It's a very welcoming atmosphere and we love to eat there for both the food and the service.

Time visited: We've been there a few times on Friday night. We are always seated quickly and the service is quick. We've also been there on a Sunday afternoon after church and that seemed to be a much busier time for the restaurant. Still immediate seating and quick service.

This is a also a great restaurant for large parties. Plenty of tables big enough for eight or more.

• Visited July 2014