I believe we have ourselves a trend here in PDX with the notion of gourmet Mexican cuisine. While that may sound a bit oxymoronic, there has been room for years in the Mexican food scene to step up the game. Enter Xico (pronounced chico), with a style and a flair that’s as hot as some of their salsas. Out in the hinterlands of SE Division in a chic (pronounced cool) upscale remodel of an old Eastside house, Xico serves up some serious, innovative dishes which certainly have their roots in Mexican culinary culture. The Oaxacan art of mole is traditionally represented in dishes like the Mole Amarillo con Pollo which graces the specials board. Starters beg for the Sopapillas and a round of mezcal margaritas. Move up with Quesadillas con Rajas and the Brisket Barbacoa. Crush the evening with the flourless Woodblock Chocolate Cake. The space at Xico is split between a comfortably stark interior and an extravagant patio that is a delight during the warmer weather. Happy Hour gives you a small sampling but begs you to just dive into the main event. Xico remains true to the tastes of MeXico, while instilling refinements to make them more than just spicy. The flight of salsa delivers a subtle variety of flavor and an education in the art of the pepper. Use them to draw out the characteristics of the food in front of you. Sunday Brunch is an easy way to go beyond the typical Huevos Rancheros. Arriba!

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I believe we have ourselves a trend here in PDX with the notion of gourmet Mexican cuisine. While that may sound a bit oxymoronic, there has been room for years in the Mexican food scene to step up the game. Enter Xico (pronounced chico), with a style and a flair that’s as hot as some of their salsas. Out in the hinterlands of SE Division in a chic (pronounced cool) upscale remodel of an old Eastside house, Xico serves up some serious, innovative dishes which certainly have their roots in Mexican culinary culture. The Oaxacan art of mole is traditionally represented in dishes like the Mole Amarillo con Pollo which graces the specials board. Starters beg for the Sopapillas and a round of mezcal margaritas. Move up with Quesadillas con Rajas and the Brisket Barbacoa. Crush the evening with the flourless Woodblock Chocolate Cake. The space at Xico is split between a comfortably stark interior and an extravagant patio that is a delight during the warmer weather. Happy Hour gives you a small sampling but begs you to just dive into the main event. Xico remains true to the tastes of MeXico, while instilling refinements to make them more than just spicy. The flight of salsa delivers a subtle variety of flavor and an education in the art of the pepper. Use them to draw out the characteristics of the food in front of you. Sunday Brunch is an easy way to go beyond the typical Huevos Rancheros. Arriba!

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