RESTAURANT REVIEW - A hidden gem in Madera that was devastated by Covid closures and staffing issues is making a comeback with incredible food as just a fun place for the community to hang out with friends and neighbors. I’m talking about Tacos and Beer on Avenue 17 near Country Club. About a year ago, I was in the process of writing a review on this place after we picked up a tray of what they call “sushi”, then the location closed for a while before I got a chance to try their tacos or beer. This week, I was able to get back and check out the rest of what they have to offer. I have to say I do not understand how this place is not packed every night.
The place has pool tables and dartboards with a state-of-the-art jukebox and televisions everywhere to watch whatever game is playing. I saw a plethora of beer taps, and their menu lists another dozen or so selections of bottled and canned beers. The food menu is filled with tacos and Mexican dishes made from traditional land-based meats (beef, chicken, and pork). Though it looks like they specialize in seafood tacos which is ironic considering what they call sushi does not seem to include anything close to seafood.
Let’s address the sushi thing. What they offer is not sushi. It is not even close to what you might think of when you think of sushi; Sushi does not contain bacon or hamburger. If you order sushi from this place expecting traditional Japanese cuisine, you will be disappointed. I would almost prefer they did not even use the term ‘sushi’ to describe what they offer because sushi it is not. Whatever it is, though, is very good. When we got our tray, I had to get out of the mindset that I was eating sushi. Once I did that, I realized that they had created a menu with rice, seaweed, traditional sushi sauces, and a wide variety of other items I would have never thought to use for sushi. We ordered five of their most popular rolls, and they were all delicious. There was nothing left by the time we were done with our tray, not even a crumb. So if you are someone that is afraid of REAL sushi with raw fish, this might be exactly what you are looking for. It is well worth the price and something we will order again.
This place looks like a fantastic joint to hang out with friends after work to share a beer, eat some great food and just relax and have some fun. Check out their Facebook page for their hours and photos of what they offer. Like everywhere nowadays, they are still experiencing some staffing issues but the staff I came into contact with were friendly and welcoming. It looks like they are not open on Sundays, but that could change if business picks up. I would highly recommend finding a babysitter and taking your partner to this fun, “new” place right here in Madera.
