A Feast at Empellon Cocina

Alex Stupak had such success with his first Mexican restaurant in the west village he opened up a second across town. This time focusing on small plates. We had a decent sized group and honestly went a little nuts ordering.

Guacamole with Pistachios 

Masa Crisps

Chicharonnes with Tomatillo-Caper Salsa

Ruby Red Shrimp with Crispy Masa, Sea Urchin Mousse and Lettuces

Avocado with Spicy Grains, Sunchokes and Hazelnut Dressing

Tongue Sopes with Refried Beans and Salsa de Arbol

Gordita with Smoked Plaintain, Chorizo and Egg Yolk

Melted Tetilla Cheese with Lobster Tomate Frito and Kol (Yucatan style white sauce)

Tortillas

Smoked Ricotta

Three Salsas (salsa de arbol, salsa verde, chorizo-raisin puree)

Scallops with Huitlacoche,Rutabaga and Masa Polenta

Squid with Heirloom Potatoes, Chorizo, Mayonnaise and Black Mole
(chihuacle negro, 29 other ingredients)

I can honestly say everything we had was spectacular starting with the nutty creamy guacamole down to the ridiculous layers of flavors in the squid. I thought it couldn't get better than the shrimp and sea urchin but then I had the lobster and I swear my heart almost stopped. It was so incredibly rich and satisfying. I can never come here alone because I will eat that entire dish myself and probably make myself sick on it.  

In fact the only thing I didn't like about the restaurant was the enormous eagle painting in the bathroom (that thing freaked me out). This is some seriously different and wonderful Mexican food. I can't wait to come back and try out what little of the menu is left.

http://empellon.com/cocina/