After hearing someone talking about how much they enjoyed this place, I decided to check it out. Usually for Latin food in Asbury Park, Bistro Ole or La Tapatia would be my destinations. Actually, Bistro Ole is awesome, but priced beyond my humble budget. La...Tapatia, just a few blocks up the street, is also a sure bet for delicious food, huge portions, reasonable prices, and a very Mexican atmosphere.
Arriving half an hour before closing, we weren't sure if we'd be welcomed. The restaurant was empty by the time we arrived, but we were greeted enthusiastically by the owner and received cheerful attentive service from our servers. No 'stink eye' for daring to come in half an hour before closing, and we were not rushed out (having worked in the hospitality business, we were mindful that the staff would be happy to wrap up early, so we didn't linger an unreasonably long amount of time).
The decor is sleek, modern and sophisticated, without the 'kitschy' Mexican-style decor of La Tapatia. Don't get me wrong -- La Tapatia is really nicely appointed, not like the kind of really tacky decor one finds in a national chain of Mexican restaurants.
As the owner pointed out, Cotija Latin Flavors isn't 'Mexican,' but instead features a rotating menu of the diverse cuisine that one could put into the category of "Latin."
Priced a little higher than La Tapatia, and being so wary of my budget this year, we ordered a taco sampler and a pork and pineapple burrito. Before those entrees arrived, we were served some fresh tortilla chips and a wonderful salsa for dipping.
I wish I could remember more details, but we visited before this restaurant was listed on Tripadvisor. I do remember being too full to finish, and we enjoyed our dinner a second time (in a good way!)
Kudos to Cotija Latin Flavors for adding yet another destination for discerning diners!More