Restaurant Review: Hernandez Cocina (735 Yates Street, Victoria BC)

Precious little tacos from Hernandez

Have you ever noticed how authentic Mexican food is generally really balanced and fresh? Forget that cheesy mess you get at other places (although, when craved, the cheesy mess can be welcomed). Hernandez isn't some Tex-Mex, artery-clogging disaster. No, Hernandez is simply put, AMAZING! Fresh, nutritious, satisfying, generous, and honest. An eatery like this one stands alone in Victoria.

I have to confess honestly though, I have had a "gluten-tummy" just once from eating at Hernandez, but that was a couple years ago now, and I have since learned to inform the staff that I have a gluten allergy so they can be extra careful. No problems since then...only blissful chowing on Victoria BEST Mexican food.
Everything Hernandez makes is done with care and integrity, and it really shows in the final product: perfect masa tortillas and delicate and flavorful meat (all hormone-free, organic, or local). They have many vegan/ vegetarian options as well like "Tacos de Frijoles" (black bean)...just $5 for 5 delicious tacos. Ask for no sour cream to make it vegan!

My favorite dishes are these:

• Huarache de Puerco (or de Pollo): its a thick handmade corn tortilla, topped with black beans, rice, shredded pork (or chicken) full of mexican flavor, and some greens.
• Tacos de Carne: three handmade corn tortillas with local organic beef, salsa, cilantro and lime.

Most of their menu is gluten-free, except the burritos, which are made with flour tortillas. Everything else is made just for you!

Check out their website at http://www.hernandezcocina.com/ and familiarize yourself with all their traditions and their love for their cultural, family-inspired cuisine.