by Guest Writer Marta Tarantsey
Muy sabroso!
Kahlo Exotic Grill Downtown Delights Solo and Group Diners Alike
“How about that new place?” We were hungry after getting in all the goal steps that day.
There’s no other way to describe it, the April and May Third Friday and Open Streets collaboration was a success. Both times I had friends join me as we explored the shops downtown, checked out the resource booths, danced with the belly dancing troupe in Alba Park, and enjoyed the wonderful weather. But with the steps came quite an appetite. We found a place to help with that at 44 S Central, aka the former Bricktowne location; central to downtown, with plenty of on street and paid lot parking; we agreed it was a great spot to cap the night of downtown fun.
On April 19th, checking out this new downtown spot for fusion dining and red brick chic, my friend and I decided to check out the staple by which we are ready to judge food trucks and elevated dining establishments alike: the one and only – the taco selection. As an appetizer, I ordered the Carpaccio de Res, sliced USDA Prime beef, served raw, dressed with arugula and capers – the fixings seem to rotate a bit, as the second time I ordered them a week later on a work dinner they arrived with jalapenos.
I enjoyed my Gobernador tacos with fish. The batter was not overwhelming, and the flavors danced together – a well-executed classic. I knew I would be back. And that I would bring the others.
A chance soon presented itself as a team of my colleagues from all over the state traveled to Southern Oregon, and for at least two in the crew, this was their first time in Medford. Kahlo’s features banquette style seating in the larger dining room, and the row of tables can accommodate a rather large group, with a kind advance notice, of course. My dining party of 18 enjoyed a variety of drinks and my colleagues appreciated a selection of beverages, ranging from Frida’s Favorite, a solid fruity margarita with a blend of a spice around the rim, to my Mojito mocktail as I was rocking that designated driver life that night. I enjoyed a rib eye steak; this time I ordered some heated guacamole served in a ramekin, aka the Guacamole Casserole on the menu. My appetizer to share? Why, Carpaccio de Res again, of course.
A coworker genuinely surprised me with his adventurous order of Pulpo Sarandeado – an entire octopus served with a side of veggies. A sense of pride and amazement rang through the room as he finished it and complemented the flavors. I know what I am ordering next time I am here for dinner!
Just a few weeks later, a larger crew of mine returned to enjoy a dinner here after all the strolling, shopping, and catching a whiff of every shower bomb at Em’z Blendz. I went with the Carpaccio de Res again and it was amazing, all over again.
I cannot wait to go back – to try out the breakfast/brunch menu and to revisit the attentive hospitality that welcomes small groups and 18-strong crews alike. Next time I find myself in this elevated and brightened up space with colorful Frida Kahlo inspired decor red brick dining rooms where amazing flavors delight and surprise, I hope to see you here.
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Kahlo is open seven days a week.
They can be found on Google and social media.
You can drop in or make reservations on-line or by phone at 541-499-6014.
