Address: 2947 Tremainsville Rd, Toledo, OH 43613

Phone: +1 419 474 1414

Price Range: $$$$

Website: https://www.restaurantji.com/oh/toledo/carmels-mexican-restaurant-2/

Carmel's with a Twist

If you're craving Mexican food and find yourself in Toledo, Carmel's with a Twist is a place with a story and a margarita worth checking out. Owned by the local DeLaRosa family, this restaurant has been serving the community for decades. Notably, you'll find that their customer service is particularly praised, with staff consistently friendly and attentive.

Starting with the appetizers, the chips and salsa come highly recommended. The chips are warm and crunchy, and the salsa has just the right amount of kick—an addictive start to any meal. The Cajun Crab Nachos are a crowd-pleaser, combining imitation crab with a creamy Cajun sauce topped with melted cheese. The combination of textures and flavors is delightful.

Moving onto entrées, the beef Burralada is a must-try. This dish features a generously stuffed flour tortilla filled with your choice of beef and beans or just beef, all smothered in Carmel's signature gravy sauce and topped with melted cheese. Each bite is a burst of savory goodness, balanced by the fresh garnish of lettuce and tomatoes.

The Wet Burrito also deserves a shoutout. This behemoth of a burrito is filled with a choice of meats, including chicken or beef, along with fresh lettuce, all enveloped in a savory brown sauce. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for satisfying those big appetites.

For something lighter, consider the Chicken Quesadilla. It's packed with shredded chicken and a blend of cheeses, housed between two perfectly toasted flour tortillas. Served with sides of guacamole and sour cream, it’s a great shareable plate or a satisfying single order depending on your hunger level.

On the drink front, their margaritas have quite the fan base. With a variety of flavors, the Peach and Mango margaritas stand out. The Peach margarita, in particular, is a crowd favorite, known for its balanced sweetness and smooth finish. These drinks are reputedly made with top-shelf tequila, ensuring you enjoy every sip without the common next-day regret.

The dining experience can be a bit hit or miss sometimes. Some patrons have noted issues like slow service during peak hours and occasional inconsistencies in food quality—like the gristle in the Burralada or overly greasy crab nachos. However, these incidents seem to be exceptions rather than the rule.

When planning your visit, weekdays might be your best bet for quicker service and a more relaxed atmosphere, as weekends tend to be busier. Reservations aren't required, but calling ahead can save you a wait, especially if you're coming with a larger group.

For dessert, if you have room left, give their limited-time offerings a spin. The flan, when available, is a delightful way to end your meal on a sweet note.

Carmel's with a Twist is more than just a restaurant; it's a slice of Toledo's history with a modern twist. Despite some uneven experiences, many still consider it a local gem, especially for its margaritas and certain standout dishes.