La Santisima in Glendale: Happy Hour Report Card

The Spot: La Santisima Gourmet Taco Shop
5932 West Glendale Avenue, Glendale
623-939-3292
www.lasantisimagourmet.com

The Hours: Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.

Perfect for: Tiny tacos and giant margaritas

Interior: If you've been to the location of La Santisima on 16th Street in Phoenix, we can't say you'll be surprised by the décor of the Glendale location. In fact, we almost forgot which one we were in when we visited the West Valley location last week. The Glendale spot shares the same colorful chairs, dark concrete floors, and festive art as the Phoenix restaurant — at least we have to give the restaurants points for consistency. As for service, the woman working the front of the house was friendly but inattentive, even though we were one of two filled tables while we were there. 
The Food: During happy hour, you'll have just two food options to choose from — a carne asada taco or chicken tinga taco. We got one of each since they were only $1.95 a piece. The chicken tinga was flavorful and spicy with just enough brightness from the crispy red onions. The carne asada taco, on the other hand, was a letdown. The meat was nicely charred but overcooked and chewy; we wished it had been more tender. However, we couldn't be too upset given that La Santisima provides you with enough meat and toppings and two fresh tortillas to create a pair of tacos on each plate.

Of course, you'll also get free rein of La Santisima's famous salsa bar during happy hour, which is basically all you need to make a visit worth it. Whether you're a fan of hearty, smoky salsas or something a little more different, such as the strawberry salsa, you'll find something that will make you finish off that heaping basket of chips. 
The Drinks: Beers and margaritas make up La Santisima's drink menu during happy hour. Choose from domestic beers for $3 or imported beers for $4. The restaurant also carries Anchor Steam for $4. 

For us, however, it was all about the $5 house margaritas. Made with grapefruit juice and served in a large glass goblet, this margarita is just what the doctor ordered — you know, if the doctor ever actually prescribed a large alcoholic drink as the cure to a long, stressful day. 

Conclusion: If we were in the area and craving cheap tacos and a cold drink, we'd definitely go to La Santisima in Glendale. The prices are compelling, but we wish more than half of the happy hour food menu had our mouths watering. However, the salsa bar and generous margaritas may be enough to make us return. Perhaps the chewy steak in our taco was just a fluke. 

Don't miss: The house margaritas
Skip this: The carne asada taco

Grade: C

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