Xitomate opens at Rt.108 & Snowden with Flair!
Located just off Route 108 at Snowdon River Parkway, Xitomate Cocina Mexican and Tequila Bar is the newest attraction for Howard County gourmands. On Thursday, April 25 the cutting of the grand opening ribbon open the restaurant to a small but enthusiastic group of dignitaries, press, and local bloggers. Attendees were treated a sampling of Xitomate’s appetizers, their delightful red and white sangria and their margaritas. Oh, their margaritas.
Hyelin, Xitomate’s superb bartender, is a master of the shaker. One of the specialties, the “Horny Margartia” is a mix of tequila, agave nectar, fresh squeezed lime. Hyelin is not one to shirk away from a challenge. When I ordered my margarita she told me she loved creating new flavors. I couldn’t resist giving her a real test of her mixing skills by asking for a chocolate margarita. After a few minutes contemplation Hyelin produce a creamy, chocolate aperitif.
In addition to its outstanding tequila bar, Xitomate has a large family oriented dining room. The bright, warm colors of Mexico welcome patrons and the Day of the Dead themed mural gives the space an authentic, yet, modern vibe. The menu consists of familiar Mexican flavors and some untraditional tastes. The quesadilla and flautas in beef, chicken and pork are old favorites. Guacamole is made fresh at the table. Taco, enchiladas, and fajitas are available for visitor seeking those well-know dishes.
I was intrigued by the Ensalada de Nopales featuring a tosada shell with grilled cactus garnished with roasted corn, radishes, carrots, poblano chile and a light dusting of fresh cheese. Grilled cactus is rather hard to describe. It has pickle like texture and taste that mixes well with the crunch of the other vegetables and totasda. My husband ordered one of the restaurant’s signature dishes, the Sonara Steak. The steak was a generous 12 ounce New York strip served over mole sauce. The steak was tender well prepared. The mole sauce added just the right touch of spice with a hint of chocolate. The meal was completed with refried beans and grilled cactus.
Xitomate (tomato in Aztec) is sure to become a favorite for casual and family dining in Howard County. The fresh ingredients and authentic, homemade dishes are sure to delight the palette from the savory appetizer to the Churros, Carmel Flan or Tres Leches Cake. Or finish with a sample of all three. You won’t be disappointed. View the full menu at https://xitomate.com
