Merge

For the third installment of Phunky Phriday, we bring you a cozy emporium of zesty Mexican cuisine known as Rosalinda's Fonda. And let me just say that Rosalinda has obviously had more success with her Fonda than Ted Turner had with his. The menu veers on the precipice of expensive, but you can rest assured that whatever you select will be unique in comparison to other Mexican joints. Such delicacies as sea bass and cactus adorn the tacos, daring you to take them for a spin. More conventional meats may still be prepared in unconventional ways---my dish featured a jerky-like slab of beef served alongside a "tortilla casserole," which managed to be wholly unpredictable despite the full description I received from the waitress beforehand.

Rosalinda's prefaces your order with the typical combination of salsa and chips, but both are actually quite atypical. The salsa seems to be comprised of ranch, vinegar, cilantro, and other obscure ingredients. Or it might not contain any of these. My advice is just to sit back, savor the flavor, and not ask too many questions. Because soon enough you will be gifted with a second appetizer that might aptly be called Deluxe Ramen. Certainly this was the first time I had ever been served noodle soup at a Mexican restaurant, so once again points are earned for originality.

One feature of Rosalinda's that remains a mystery is the actual size of the dining area. Upon entering, we were promptly shown to the nearest table, and I failed to scan my surroundings adequately. Plus the room was dimly lit, mostly from sunshine peeking through the front entrance. An array of wacky and/or exotic alcoholic beverages was on display behind the counter, and the toothpick holders may or may not have been politically correct. That's a question I shall leave for you, the reader, to answer if and when you decide to experience this one-of-a-kind eatery for yourself.