The parking lot tells you everything you need to know. We came looking for the authentic experience and it appears we have found it. Met with smiles and warmth we are by far the only gringos in the place. Except for V of course.
Back room is as it should be. A portal to another place, much farther south. Outside dusty plains and transformed cinder block dominate the land. Inside the sun is dissected by palm fronds, vinyl slats and the vents from a dormant air conditioner. Again this is Oregon, in February, but you would never know it sitting here.
Plastic covered tablecloth, check. Faux stucco, check. Mural, check. Drop ceiling, check. Television that only plays Univision, check. Endless smiles and happy families, check.
Tlayuda is a specialty of the Oaxaca region of Mexico. It makes a grand entrance and we are taken back by the sheer size of it as it simply overpowers the table. We are the only table with Tlayuda.
Visually Tlayuda resembles a pizza, or more accurately an oversized tostada from Taco Bell. Honestly it tastes about the same too. Some of my most cherished culinary experiences come from Oaxaca... Tlayuda is not one I actually remember. Regardless this place comes highly regarded and the rest of the faire does not disappoint. Simply the best damn tacos I have had in 5 years. Love on a plate, check.
The outlet mall is an indoor/outdoor encampment. High glass panels refracting the high noonish sun into something more conducive to photo taking. Seek out such expansive places that let in, and corral natural light. It's very meta, as this type of space is essentially a photograph in and of itself.
If you recognize this quality of certain places, and it sends tingles up your spine,