As in my previous post Oak Forest eateries are now providing us foodies w/ even more options! My 2 Oak Forest favorites – El Rey & Plonk.
Where to start? El Rey is not new, but Oak Forest was their first location and have expanded to 4 locations – Washington, I10/Bunker Hill and Downtown. This one just located off Ella and 34th, at a very busy neighborhood/commercial intersection. Many people drive by not knowing the deliciousness inside because it looks just like a regular Taqueria – but read carefully its “Cuban & Mexican Cuisine.” I think I have gotten 1 Mexican thing here, I go Cuban all the way…I always pretty much order the same thing either the Cuban Taco which is by far one of the best taco’s I have ever had in my life, the Ropa Vieja plate or taco and/or the Ceviche. Let’s begin with the Cuban taco and what in store for you inside of the warm tortilla – which by the way you can get in flour, corn or WHEAT! Beef or Chicken, black beans, plantains & a hint of sour cream! Ropa Vieja means “old clothes” in Spanish & this is the best, juiciest, shreeded beef you have ever had. The plate includes rice and beans and if you get the tacos, it comes alone. Watch your clothes because this will get you messy! My mouth is watering just thinking about it! Now, if you are hot & humid in our hellish weather, want a way to cool down? How about some ceviche! This is tender, juicy, limey marinated fish, topped with avocado, pico & yummy mango! Not your regular ceviche but to me, much, much better! Another favorite is the grilled fish with Habanero Mayo, spicy and creamy and I order without the cabbage and always on Wheat. If you come by here in the morning make sure to try the cafe con leche, it’ll warm you up and get you ready for the day! Visit elreytaqueria.com for more information.
Plonk – located on 43rd and Ella is the area’s hippest year old beer and wine cafe. Plonk doesn’t necessarily roll off the tongue but the logo intrigued me ( I got a postcard in the mail) and there was nothing else in the neighborhood with such a twist and quirky attitude. Decided to ride my bike there one afternoon and have a drink and some pizza. Wow! It was crispy & tasty! The menu constantly changes to keep up with local, fresh ingredients. It’s nicely decorated, modern bar, and quaint with a nice patio & totally welcoming. Fits perfectly in between Oak Forest & Garden Oaks at the end of a new shopping center with neighbors like Massage Envy, Wells Fargo in front, Signature Kroger and many other amenities that are just walking, biking or driving distance. Come to Oak Forest and experience El Rey or Plonk!
Your happy resident of Oak Forest,
Jenny Vargas
Realtor, CNE
281.948.2951
[email protected]