By Lisa James
You must admit when your first impression is wrong.
I must have walked or driven by the restaurant 100 times, not paying much attention. The reflective tinting on the front windows of the restaurant means you’re unable to view inside and I imagined a dark bar, maybe with some poker machines in the back.
But how wrong I was! Kahlo Exotic Grill on the corner of Central Avenue and 8th Street across from the Craterian Theater is bright and clean inside. Greeted warmly and served by attentive staff, I’ve enjoyed taking friends to experience the elevated menu and presentation of Mexican fusion unlike anything I’ve eaten in the Rogue Valley before.
A surprise welcome soup – delicious. Manchego cheese dip- sure add the chorizo! House margarita served with an orchid garnish – yes please, on the rocks! Fish tacos – yum! But holy guacamole – the chicken mole is one of the best dishes I’ve enjoyed recently. You want a steak or salmon? Vegetarian? Calamari? Crepes for breakfast? Nopal (cactus) or homemade corn tortillas? I think it’s the difference between a cook and a chef – and this really feels like a chef’s kiss. Nice presentations and complex flavor profiles.
That’s because it has new owners, new signage, new décor, and an updated menu that makes Kahlo a must visit Downtown Medford restaurant. Cecilia and Jesus Manzano purchased Kahlo in November 2025. They also own Tekkamaki Sushi, the popular fusion restaurant on Roberts Road.
Jesus has brought in as part owners of Kahlo his two sisters, Maria and Fidelfa Manzano, who are busy in the kitchen creating high quality versions of your old favorites (both Mexican and American) and exploring new dishes from all over Mexico, especially from Oaxaca.
With hours from breakfast through dinner – they can accommodate any chaotic schedule like a 3pm lunch. I found the easiest access to preview their menu on their Facebook page.
“We love the location with parking close around. We hope people will see our new signage with our new logo and come in and enjoy our new décor and our delicious food,” said Cecilia.
KAHLO EXOTIC GRILL
44 South Central
541-499-6014
Hours:
Monday – Saturday 9am – 9pm
Sunday – 9am – 8pm