Nestled in the heart of Winston, OR, Carlos Restaurante stands as a beloved destination for authentic Mexican cuisine. This family-owned establishment has garnered a reputation for its unwavering commitment to traditional recipes and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. From the moment you step through the doors, you’re enveloped in a warm and welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the vibrant culture of Mexico.
The aroma of sizzling spices and the sound of lively mariachi music create an ambiance that transports you to the bustling streets of Mexico City. Carlos Restaurante’s dedication to preserving the essence of Mexican gastronomy is evident in every dish they serve. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor seeking a genuine culinary experience, this restaurant promises to delight your senses and leave you craving for more.
Appetizers
Embark on a tantalizing journey through Carlos Restaurante’s appetizer menu, where every bite is a celebration of authentic Mexican flavors. Start with the Carlos Platter, a generous sampling of the restaurant’s most beloved starters, including crispy taquitos, flavorful quesadillas, and zesty nachos, all accompanied by fresh guacamole and salsa. For those seeking a heartier option, the Nachos de Carne are a must-try, featuring a mountain of crispy tortilla chips smothered in savory ground beef, refried beans, melted cheese, and a medley of fresh toppings.
Indulge in the gooey goodness of the Quesadillas, where warm flour tortillas are stuffed with a blend of melted cheeses and your choice of fillings, such as succulent chicken or tender steak. The Queso Ranchero, a creamy blend of melted cheeses infused with spicy ranchero sauce, is the perfect dip for the crispy tortilla chips, making it an irresistible starter to share with friends and family.
For a lighter option, the Chicken Taquitos are sure to delight. Tender shredded chicken is wrapped in crispy corn tortillas and served with a tangy avocado crema and pico de gallo salsa, providing a burst of flavors in every bite. With appetizer prices ranging from $6 to $12, Carlos Restaurante offers a diverse and affordable selection to whet your appetite before indulging in the main event.
Soups and Salads
At Carlos Restaurante, the soups and salads are a testament to the fresh ingredients and traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. The Albondigas soup, a beloved Mexican classic, features tender meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful broth made from tomatoes, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Each spoonful is a comforting embrace of authentic flavors.
For those seeking a lighter option, the salad selection offers a refreshing array of choices. The Seafood Salad is a standout, with succulent shrimp or crab nestled atop crisp greens, accompanied by vibrant vegetables and a zesty dressing that perfectly complements the ocean’s bounty. Whether you prefer a hearty soup or a crisp salad, Carlos Restaurante’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients ensures a truly satisfying and genuine Mexican culinary experience.
Enchiladas
Carlos Restaurante’s enchilada selection is a true showcase of authentic Mexican flavors. The enchiladas are prepared with fresh, handmade corn tortillas that are lightly fried and then filled with your choice of savory fillings. The Enchiladas de Pollo are a customer favorite, featuring tender shredded chicken breast simmered in a rich, smoky sauce made from guajillo and ancho chiles. These enchiladas are topped with a decadent sour cream sauce and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco.
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, the Enchiladas de Espinacas y Queso are a delightful choice. These enchiladas are stuffed with a creamy mixture of sautéed spinach and melted Oaxaca cheese, then smothered in a vibrant tomatillo sauce that perfectly balances tangy and earthy flavors.
The Enchiladas de Carne are a meat-lover’s dream, filled with slow-cooked shredded beef that has been simmered in a robust sauce made from dried chile ancho, garlic, and Mexican spices. These enchiladas are topped with a zesty red sauce and a generous serving of crumbled queso fresco.
For a truly indulgent experience, try the Enchiladas Suizas, which feature tender shredded chicken breast enveloped in corn tortillas and smothered in a creamy, decadent sauce made from tomatillos, sour cream, and melted Chihuahua cheese.
No matter which enchilada dish you choose, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors that will transport you to the heart of Mexico.
Tacos and Burritos
Carlos Restaurante offers an extensive selection of tacos and burritos, showcasing the diversity of Mexican cuisine. Their taco offerings include traditional favorites like Tacos al Pastor, featuring tender pork marinated in a blend of chilies, spices, and pineapple. The Tacos de Carne Asada are a standout, with juicy grilled steak, fresh cilantro, and onions. For seafood lovers, the Tacos de Pescado or Tacos de Camarones are must-tries, with succulent fish or shrimp, cabbage, and a zesty white sauce.
The burrito selection is equally impressive, with options to satisfy every craving. The Burrito Tradicional is a classic, stuffed with your choice of protein, refried beans, rice, lettuce, and pico de gallo. The Burrito Fajita is a fan favorite, packed with grilled steak or chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and all the fixings. For a vegetarian option, the Burrito de Frijoles Negros is a hearty and flavorful choice, featuring black beans, rice, and fresh veggies.
All tacos and burritos are served with a variety of toppings and salsas, allowing diners to customize their experience. From the tangy green tomatillo salsa to the fiery habanero sauce, there’s a flavor profile to suit every palate. The tacos and burritos at Carlos Restaurante are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authentic and delicious Mexican cuisine.
Nachos and Fajitas
Carlos Restaurante’s nacho and fajita offerings are a true highlight of their menu, showcasing the vibrant flavors and authentic techniques of Mexican cuisine. The nachos are a beloved classic, featuring crispy tortilla chips smothered in a rich blend of melted cheeses, refried beans, and your choice of toppings like seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or tender carnitas. Each bite is a explosion of texture and flavor, with the option to add jalapeños, guacamole, or pico de gallo for an extra kick.
However, the true star of this section is the restaurant’s signature Fajitas dish. Sizzling on a hot skillet, these fajitas are a sensory delight, with the aroma of grilled bell peppers and onions wafting through the air. Customers can choose from tender strips of marinated steak, succulent shrimp, or a combination of both, all cooked to perfection and served alongside warm tortillas, fresh guacamole, sour cream, and a variety of salsas. The fajitas are a beloved staple at Carlos Restaurante, renowned for their authentic flavors and generous portions.
The popularity of the fajitas stems from the restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and adhering to traditional cooking methods. The marinade for the steak and shrimp is a closely guarded family recipe, infusing the proteins with a perfect blend of spices and citrus notes. The sizzling presentation and interactive nature of assembling your own fajitas make this dish a true dining experience, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Pollo En Mole and Grilled Specialties
Carlos Restaurante’s Pollo En Mole is a true culinary masterpiece that showcases the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine. This dish features tender chicken pieces smothered in a decadent mole sauce, a complex blend of spices, chilies, nuts, and chocolate. The mole sauce is a labor of love, simmered for hours to achieve its depth of flavor and velvety texture.
The Pollo En Mole is a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes, with each bite revealing new layers of flavor. The chicken is cooked to perfection, juicy and succulent, while the mole sauce envelops it in a warm embrace of aromatic spices and a hint of smokiness.
Among the grilled specialties, the Carne Asada is a standout dish that showcases the restaurant’s mastery of grilling techniques. Tender cuts of beef are marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and citrus juices, then grilled to perfection over hot coals. The result is a juicy and flavorful steak with a charred exterior that adds a delightful smoky aroma and taste.
The Pollo Asado, or grilled chicken, is another popular choice among diners. Marinated in a blend of garlic, lime, and spices, the chicken is grilled to a golden-brown perfection, ensuring a crispy skin and moist, flavorful meat. Served with rice, beans, and fresh tortillas, this dish is a classic Mexican favorite that never disappoints.
For seafood lovers, the Camarones a la Diabla is a must-try. Plump and succulent shrimp are sautéed in a fiery red sauce made with guajillo and arbol chilies, creating a delightful balance of heat and flavor. The sauce is rich and velvety, clinging to the shrimp and infusing them with a burst of spicy goodness.
No matter your choice, Carlos Restaurante’s grilled specialties are a testament to their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and time-honored cooking techniques. Each dish is a celebration of flavor, crafted with care and attention to detail.
Seafood Dishes
Seafood lovers will delight in the tantalizing array of ocean-fresh dishes at Carlos Restaurante. The menu features a variety of seafood preparations, each showcasing the vibrant flavors of Mexican coastal cuisine. From the succulent Camarones al Mojo de Ajo, featuring plump shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce, to the Pescado Veracruzano, a flaky white fish fillet smothered in a zesty tomato-olive sauce, every bite transports you to the sun-drenched shores of Mexico.
For those seeking a heartier option, the Arroz con Mariscos is a must-try. This generous portion of seafood rice is brimming with shrimp, scallops, clams, and calamari, all simmered in a rich, tomato-based broth infused with the perfect blend of spices. Alternatively, the Cóctel de Camarones offers a refreshing twist, featuring chilled shrimp swimming in a tangy cocktail sauce with diced avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro.
Each seafood dish at Carlos Restaurante is meticulously prepared using only the freshest ingredients sourced from reputable purveyors. The chefs take pride in their attention to detail, ensuring every plate is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation. Whether you’re a fan of shrimp, fish, or a medley of marine delights, the seafood offerings at Carlos Restaurante are sure to transport your taste buds on a delectable journey along the Mexican coastline.
Beverages
At Carlos Restaurante, the beverage selection is a perfect complement to the flavorful Mexican dishes. While they offer a variety of refreshing options, the real star of the show is their Signature Margarita. Crafted with their own brand of premium tequila, this margarita is a true taste of Mexico in a glass.
The Signature Margarita comes in several variations, each with its own unique twist. The Classic Margarita is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with fresh lime juice and a hint of orange liqueur. For those who prefer a little extra kick, the Spicy Margarita adds a touch of jalapeño for a delightful kick. The Fruit Margaritas, available in flavors like strawberry, mango, and pineapple, are a tropical delight.
In addition to their renowned margaritas, Carlos Restaurante offers a selection of Mexican beers, including popular brands like Corona, Modelo, and Dos Equis. For non-alcoholic options, they serve refreshing aguas frescas (fresh fruit waters) in flavors like horchata, Jamaica (hibiscus), and tamarindo.
Whether you’re enjoying a meal or just stopping by for a drink, Carlos Restaurante’s beverage menu is sure to quench your thirst and transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
Desserts
Indulging in a traditional Mexican dessert is the perfect way to conclude your dining experience at Carlos Restaurante. Our dessert menu features a selection of sweet treats that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a lasting impression of authentic Mexican flavors.
One of the highlights is our freshly made Churros. These crispy, ridged pastries are coated in cinnamon-sugar and served with a rich, decadent chocolate dipping sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of warmth, crispness, and sweetness that will transport you to the streets of Mexico.
Another classic dessert option is the creamy and velvety Flan. This custard-based dessert is infused with the rich flavors of vanilla and caramel, creating a silky-smooth texture that melts in your mouth. Our Flan is made from a traditional recipe passed down through generations, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable taste.
Whether you prefer the crunchy delight of Churros or the silky indulgence of Flan, these traditional Mexican desserts are the perfect way to end your meal at Carlos Restaurante. Savor every bite and let the flavors linger, leaving you with a sweet memory of your culinary journey through the heart of Mexican cuisine.
Egg Dishes (Platillos de Huevos)
For those seeking a delightful breakfast or brunch experience, Carlos Restaurante’s egg dishes (Platillos de Huevos) are a must-try. These traditional Mexican-style egg preparations are perfect for starting your day with a burst of flavor and authenticity.
One of the standout options is the Huevos Rancheros, a classic dish featuring fried eggs served on a crispy tortilla and smothered in a zesty ranchero sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and a blend of Mexican spices. This hearty plate is often accompanied by refried beans and slices of avocado, adding richness and creaminess to every bite.
Another popular choice is the Huevos con Chorizo, a savory combination of scrambled eggs mixed with spicy Mexican chorizo sausage. The robust flavors of the chorizo perfectly complement the fluffy eggs, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
For those seeking a lighter option, the Huevos Revueltos (scrambled eggs) offer a versatile canvas for customization. Diners can choose to add their preferred ingredients, such as diced tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, or even cheese, creating a personalized breakfast experience.
Vegetarians can indulge in the delicious Huevos a la Mexicana, a vibrant dish featuring scrambled eggs mixed with sautéed tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños, providing a flavorful and satisfying meatless option.
No matter which egg dish you choose, each plate is served with warm tortillas, allowing you to create your own tacos or burritos, making it a truly interactive and enjoyable dining experience.
Conclusion
Carlos Restaurante’s menu is a true celebration of authentic Mexican cuisine, offering a diverse array of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
From the vibrant appetizers and soul-warming soups to the hearty enchiladas, tacos, and burritos, every dish is a masterpiece of traditional recipes and fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Indulge in the signature Pollo En Mole, a rich and complex dish that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Explore the grilled specialties or savor the delectable seafood options, all expertly prepared to transport you to the heart of Mexico’s culinary heritage.
Whether you’re seeking a casual dining experience or planning a special event, Carlos Restaurante is the perfect destination. Visit their welcoming establishment in Winston, OR, and immerse yourself in the warm ambiance and exceptional service.
Alternatively, place your order online for a convenient pickup or delivery option, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Mexico in the comfort of your own home.
For those planning events or gatherings, Carlos Restaurante offers exceptional catering services, tailored to your specific needs.
From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, their team will work closely with you to create a memorable and delicious experience for your guests.
Experience the authentic flavors of Mexico at Carlos Restaurante. Embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more, and let their passion for food and hospitality create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.