We’re local and we like to support local. We especially like to EAT local. Every month we send a staff member or two out to try a locally owned Miami Valley restaurant, then share the experience here with you.
La Pinata Mexican Bar & Grill – 9505 Dayton Lebanon Pike, Dayton, OH 45458 – https://www.lapinata.net/
There is certainly no shortage of Mexican restaurants in the Dayton area these days. La Pinata is an independently owned spot in Centerville at the intersection of Route 48 and Sheehan Road. Open for just a couple of months, this location replaces one in the Kroger Marketplace shopping center nearby. The atmosphere is bright and colorful with a patio that will be nice as we finally move into warmer weather.
We nibbled on chips and salsa while perusing the menu. (Pretty good quality as chips and salsa go!) Since it feels as though you can order the same thing at just about any Mexican restaurant, we looked for menu items that might be a little more unique. We chose two newer menu items – the Torta (a Mexican sub) and Huevos a la Mexicana.
Basically, scrambled eggs with veggies and Mexican spices, the Huevos a la Mexicana were served with refried beans, rice, and flour tortillas. Very tasty and not too heavy for a lunch meal. The Torta was a much heartier serving. A large toasted bun came filled with steak, mayo, lettuce, onions, tomatoes, beans, avocado, and some pretty spicy jalapenos. While the fillings were tasty, the bun was a little overwhelming. The fries served on the side were enjoyable. They were coated in a little batter and some spices before going in the fryer which gave them a unique spin.
It’s always nice to end the meal with something a little sweet, so we ordered some Sopapillas. These crispy tortillas covered with cinnamon, sugar, and honey were light and just the right amount of dessert.
With such a crowded field in the Mexican restaurant arena, it can be pretty tough to stand out. Our lunch at La Pinata was a quality meal in a nice atmosphere. It would definitely be worth a stop if you are in the area.
Reviewed by: Joy McMeekin