Talara

On Friday night, my friend and I made our first venture to the 'nuevo latino bistro' Talara in Harbor East.  We went on a whim...i.e. no reservation...and the original news of a 45 minute wait turned into 5 minutes to set a nice 2-top, and we were good to go!

All around, Talara was fabulous.  And did you know they have a gluten free menu?! Yes, they do folks, and they are happy to accomodate.  We loved our server, Monica, who was prompt, helpful, and personable.  My gluten-eating-able friend and I decided to order gf and split everything, and here is what we got:

• Mojitos -- delicious, but small for the price. but we love mojitos so whatever.
• Chips w/ guacamole -- just guac is not on the menu, but you can order it for $3
• 'Double' Ceviche: Avocado+Corn with yellowtail, and Fire+Ice with tuna. -- the Fire & Ice ceviche was incredible. It's described as very spicy but we thought it was just right...keep in mind we like spicy food.
• Cuban Sushi Roll without Ponzu sauce -- This was our absolute favorite thing. It is not on the gf menu, but I suspected it was just the sauce. Our server and the manager checked with the kitchen, and surely enough it was perfectly gf without the ponzu. My friend got a ramekin of it on the side, and while yummy, didn't think it 'made' the dish or anything.
• Chile-rubbed Salmon -- comes with green-beans and cassava/potato-like things in a buttery sauce. Good sized portion...we were glad we shared!

Talara is not cheap, especially if you leave a good tip (which you should, if service warrants), although you can make it significantly less expensive by forgoing drinks. We suggest making a reservation, particularly on a weekend night. There is also outdoor and bar seating available.

Enjoy, dear gf diners and friends!
Have you been to Talara? What did you think? Leave a comment!