*** (3 stars)

I have mixed feelings about Agave Azul. On the one hand, I love the expansive outdoor patio, the spacious, well-decorated interior, and the excellent margaritas. One the other hand, in many visits to their various locations, I’ve rarely had any food that stood out as above average.

That was pretty much the case at this location, too, with one stellar exception: the goat cheese jalapeno appetizer was absolutely amazing. Spicy jalapenos were stuffed with creamy cheese, and then finished with an array of toppings that really elevated the dish, including a cilantro crema and a dash of sweet balsamic.

Other items were just average, including the tostadas, ceviche, shrimp diablo (which despite the name is not spicy at all), beans, and rice.

Service was great, and the kitchen is fast, too, even though the place was jam-packed, with a dozen parties waiting outside.

My advice is to go to the bar, have the La Flaca Margarita and the Goat Cheese Jalapenos, and call it a day.

Agave Azul Cocina Mexicana
5855 Winter Garden Vineland Rd
Windermere, FL 34786

https://www.yelp.com/biz/agave-azul-cocina-mexicana-windermere

**** (4 stars)

This counter serve Mexican restaurant offers traditional tacos, burritos and quesadillas made to order, each with a variety of proteins. I tried the pastor taco and the chicken quesadilla. But were very good.

The taco was served with one rather than the traditional two corn tortillas, but it was sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients, and the pastor had a nice flavor. As is often the case, it was prepared without the pineapple that is common elsewhere, which is fine with me.

The quesadilla was a generous serving, and the ingredients were quite savory.

Both items were quite mild, but some green Chulola hot sauce fixed them right up.

The order was served with chips and a very mild salsa, and the quesadilla was served with sour cream, which I really appreciated.

Service was friendly and quite fast (although I was the only customer, as it was early). I would note that it is the first restaurant I’ve been to during the pandemic where the staff was not wearing masks, if that is important to you.

Cilantro’s Taqueria
11103 W Colonial Dr
Ocoee, FL 34761

https://www.yelp.com/biz/cilantro-s-taqueria-ocoee