Photography by Adam Ripplinger
What: Authentic Mexican cuisine for brunch + 101 tequilas to choose from
Where: La Sandia Tequila Cantina in Northfield Stapleton, 8340 Northfield Boulevard, Unit 1690
When: Sundays 11am-3pm
You’ve got to try: Bottomless brunch cocktails for $15 with the purchase of tasty entrees like the Breakfast Relleno De Tamal
Mexican may not be the first cuisine that comes to mind when you think of brunch, but if restaurateur Richard Sandoval has any say, that’s going to change. Sandoval is the man behind dozens of restaurants world-wide including Denver favorites Al Lado, Zengo, Tamayo, Venga Venga and Maya. At La Sandia, Sandoval brings his “old ways, new hands” motto to every plate, serving up Mexican comfort food cooked using traditional techniques resulting in a menu filled with authentic, bold flavors and, of course, plenty of tequila.
Photography by Adam Ripplinger
Bottomless Brunch cocktails for $15 make for a relaxing Sunday morning. Choose from the classic Mimosa kicked up with pineapple or watermelon, spicy Bloody Marias or Tropical Fruit Magaritas with lime, mango, or strawberry. If bottomless is a bit intimidating, opt for one of La Sandia’s many other cocktail creations. After getting the chance to sample a table-full of options, the Watermelon Mojito and Watermelon Margarita were favorites with their sweet, fresh watermelon flavor that makes them perfect for summer. Or opt for a margarita made with one of La Sandia’s infused tequilas. The brightly hued Prickly Pear Blueberry Margarita is a treat for the senses and went down a bit too smoothly. There are also plenty of non-alcoholic drink options as well including sweet Horchata and Fresh Lemonade that tastes like it’s from a stand.
The lunch menu is also available during brunch hours, so don’t be afraid to mix-and-match when ordering. The Shrimp Ceviche from the lunch menu is a citrus-y treat to start with for the table. Tender shrimp are served in a creamy, tangy orange-habanero broth along with smooth avocado, tomatoes and pickled onion, and it’s a great partner for a Flight of Tequila.
Photography by Adam Ripplinger
Entrée choices include the expected with classic dishes like Huevos Rancheros and Enfrijoladas, but to really get a taste for what makes La Sandia special, try something new. The star of the Carnitas Sopes Eggs Benedict is the deep, rich mole sauce that is served on top. After sampling some less than stellar mole around town, I was happy to finally find one I could eat all by itself with a spoon. On the side, opt for the Poblano Cream Potatos (you won’t see this side listed on the menu, but believe me, ask for it!). The Breakfast Relleno De Temal is a filling choice with its flash-fried (not battered, a resulting in a tasty, lighter relleno) poblano stuffed with chicken tinga tamal and topped with fried eggs over beans. I’m a relleno fan, and this far less greasy version has me excited to get creative with this dish in my own kitchen.
If you’re craving something sweet, La Sandia offers Mexican Chocolate Waffles that have a comforting spiced flavor and a dose of sweet strawberry sauce. Or order one of La Sandia’s classic desserts like the Flan, which is cooked on the stovetop giving the creamy custard a crisp, caramelized top. Most dishes at La Sandia can also be made Gluten-Free and Vegetarian.
La Sandia is always updating their brunch menu with new dishes that show how Mexican cuisine can tackle this favorite meal in innovative ways. There is also a second La Sandia located near Park Meadows in South Denver offering similar choices in a buffet-style brunch option. If pancakes and omelets are losing their luster, La Sandia offers a brunch that will get you out of your brunch rut, one slice of lime at a time.