El Molino Central - Mexican, Sonoma

11 Central Ave, Sonoma CA 95476
(707) 939-1010
Parking: limited parking in parking lot
http://www.elmolinocentral.com/

Last Visited: August 7, 2015

Food: 3 to 4 stars
Atmosphere: 3 stars
Service: 3 stars
Price: $ to $$

I've been wanting to try El Molino Central since they opened up in town several years ago, but didn't have the opportunity until this warm summer evening.  Although I've heard that the prices are a bit on the high side for Mexican food, it's within the range of normal for Sonoma.

Located in Boyes Hot Springs, you might just drive by it without a second glance, but they've built a good reputation over the years, especially becoming known for their tamales.  They also have seasonal menus - in summer, there are summer squash tamales.  In fall, pumpkin and cheese tamales appear on the menu.

Unlike many other restaurants, chips and salsa aren't part of the meal.  If you want chips and salsa, you'll need to order them for $4.  There also aren't refills on the chips.  Chips and guacamole will run you $5.50 for one avocado or $8 for two. Chilaquiles are always found on the menu before 11am.

- Bohemia Beer Battered Fish Tacos (2) - These soft tacos include a lovely piece of golden fried fish, a drizzle of salsa de arbol, a lot of shredded cabbage for crunch, and avocado-lime mayo.  Three radish slices top each taco adding color, more crunch, and serving as a garnish.  It's a delicious few bites and leaves you desiring more.  A little more salsa and mayo would have made it even better.  I would highly recommend this dish if you're here, and I could easily eat more than one order in a sitting.  $9.50

-Oaxcan Mole Chicken Tamales - Two tamales are filled with chicken breast and topped with a
flavorful mole.  Curtido (pickled vegetable relish) is served on the side.  I thought the tamale itself was quite delicious with a creamy texture, but I wasn't crazy about the chicken because I prefer dark meat.   I probably should have ordered squash and cheese.  The curtido was alright - not quite pickled enough for my taste. This one was just okay for me.  $12.50

Note that seating is outdoors and although it looks like it's a fast food joint, you can easily wait 20 minutes or more for your meal. As long as you know what you're getting into, you're in good shape.