I had a very refreshing Friday eve pick me up experience today right here in Columbia. I attended the grand opening of Xitomate, the newest Mexican restaurant in Howard County. And if you need a Monday night, Wednesday afternoon, Friday Happy Hour-because-I-don’t-wanna-go-home-yet pick me up spot, head there yourself.
HoCo bloggers were invited to get a taste of Xitomate this afternoon. Talk about smart, cost-effective marketing. I am happy to blog about this one y’all. Especially since the food and drinks were actually GOOD. Can you say ‘Que Rico!’? Check out my Horny Margarita for which I am not ashamed to say I indulged in twice.
We were also treated to some tasty vittles that I cannot wait to come back and order full blast. Chicken and Pork Flautas, Beef Empanadas, smoky flavored salsa and of course that butter smooth guacamole served Rosa Mexicana style.
Xitomate is a creation from the minds that brought you Azul 17. Xitomate means “tomato” in Nahualah (Aztec) and represents freshness and vibrancy in flavor. As you look around at the soft blue colored walls and ornate light fixtures you can tell that they really worked hard to be vibrant all over. This is the kinda spot I like to see and frequent. It has a youthful appeal. No offense to Clyde’s or Stanford Grill which have distinct places in our fair county but this place can draw more of a young professional crowd. It has that urban, unique, Sex in the City kind of appeal which I think is a little lacking in County de Howard. I can see happy hours, girls nights out, 40 year old birthday celebrations, and even fundraisers happening in this place.
Mexican food is nothing new but having it cooked well with fresh ingredients is sadly starting to become a novelty. The last Mexican meal I had tasted like frozen food warmed in a dirty oven. Blah!!! No salsa from a jar. No stale tortilla chips. No fried dishes that taste like the grease is five days old. This place was fresh in every way.
Ok. I’ve talked you to death about Xitomate. Tienes hambre (Are you hungry)? Bueno (Good)!! Get over there. I think you’ll be pleased.
Cuisine: Casual Authentic Mexican
Address: 5850 Waterloo Rd
Suite 100
Columbia, MD 21045
Telephone: 410.750.8787
Hours of Operation
Monday – Thursday
Lunch: 11am to 3pm
Dinner: 3pm to 11pm
Happy Hour: 4pm to 7pm
Friday
Lunch: 11am to 3pm
Dinner: 3pm to 12am
Happy Hour: 4pm to 7pm
Saturday
Brunch: 10am to 3pm
Dinner: 3pm to 12am
Sunday
Brunch: 10am to 3pm
Dinner: 3pm to 11pm