Oyamel Cocina Mexicana

It’s hard to believe that a bowl of guacamole could ever be worth $13. That is, unless you see it crafted before your eyes with fresh avocados and exotic seasoning at this trendy Mexican café in Penn’s Quarter. Despite its brilliance, the guacamole is just the tip of the culinary iceberg at Oyamel. With an extensive menu of antojitos (essentially the Mexican version of tapas), hand-made tacos and traditional Mexican entrees, diners are encouraged to order in abundance and sample a variety of flavors. The restaurant’s sleek, modern décor is accented with hanging metallic butterflies and a lineup of skeleton figurines that look like they were swiped from a Dia de los Muertos fiesta. It’s a great choice for an upscale-casual night out that’s far from ordinary.

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