Taco Tuesday: Los Amigos

While we’re learning are plentiful in Clearwater, we’re also realizing that some stand out from the others for different reasons.

Some have more variety of tacos than others. Some are larger and more modern inside, while other shops are quaint and old-fashioned.

But one thing they all have in common is that they have their own unique take on the time-honored Mexican treat, the taco.

Los Amigos, located on Missouri Ave right on the Clearwater-Largo border, mixes many of these ingredients and comes out with a winning combination.

The interior is bright, spacious and modern, but done in a traditional Mexican décor.

Flat screens hang in the front and rear, and a juke box stands in front of the picture window. A Latin market is attached next door to satisfy all of your Mexican food needs.

But the real test of any Mexican restaurant is the tacos, and Los Amigos passes the test with flying colors.

They offer 11 different kinds of tacos, from the traditional (chicken, beef, pork) to the unconventional (tripe, pork skins, pickle pork & pineapple). Each goes for $1.75, except the Lengua (tongue), which is $2.00.

The tacos are served on soft flour shells with a lime and a smattering of cilantro, but instead of being filled with finely chopped meat as in some restaurants, Los Amigos’ tacos come with thick chunks of flavorful fillings.

Each taco has its own distinct flavor, from mild to sweet to spicy, to a combination of the last two.

The pastor (pickle pork & pineapple) pulls this mix off perfectly, as does the longaniza (Mexican sausage), which contains mounds of red meat that is both tart and sweet at the same time.

The menu also includes breakfast, dinner plates, entrees and weekend specials; beverages include domestic and imported sodas, juices, waters and beers to help wash everything down.

If you’re not in the mood for a taco, the beef enchilada is the size of a loaf of bread.

But do yourself a favor. Try the longaniza before you go.

Take a bite:

Los Amigos, 1632 Missouri Ave

Hours: From 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.

Call: (727) 582-9895