I have been to Nuestra Cocina so many times and always have a great experience. It has a pleasant "nice casual" atmosphere with friendly, helpful servers. The pretty, warm-colored dining room is relaxing and pleasant. The bartender is great and the chile-infused margarita is deliciously spicy. It is so homey to sit down and enjoy those little handmade tortillas. Some of my favorites - any fish special (don't even think about it, just get it, you won't be sorry) the albondigas when they have it, and surprisingly, the delicious shrimp entree (don't usually care for boring shrimps). For dessert, try the lemon curd empanada or the rich drinking chocolate. Fabulous! The sous chef is great and it is fun to sit up at the counter and watch him cook (he makes the absolutely delicious desserts, too!!). The other cooks are talented and friendly and obviously care about their food. For the delicious food and good-sized portions, this place is a wonderful value.

I go to this restaurant often, I love the place. But, every once in awhile I have the misfortune of being served by Christina. Wow! She is possibly the worst server I have ever seen. I have had to wait many times at least 15 minutes just for her to stop by the table and even longer for a drink order or for apps. Several times other staff have had to take meal orders and most often deliver them to my table. Why Is this girl still working in such a great restaurant?

Growing up in LA and frequenting Tijuana, I found the best Mexican food to be at hole in the walls, carts, food trucks, etc. It's just one of those cuisines that?s best when cheap. However, there's only one such place in Portland that offers excellent fare: little dive next to a market on Fremont and 84ish.

Anyway, for the upscale variety, Nuestra Cocina outshines Authentica, Toro, Cha Cha Cha, and a host of popular mid-range establishments. Thanklfully, this is not a #2 special with rice and beans kinda place. I do prefer fresh chips to their small serving of corn-flour tortillas, but the accompanying paste/sauce is very good. Unfortunately, the pork in the Sopes was over-powering or else it's a great dish and value. The Gorditas are a must order. Yesterday was our fourth visit, but I can't remember what I had the first three. Their Mojito was one of the better I've had. Service was excellent and the Chef was very friendly. A great place, especially if you can garner a patio table on a nice summer evening.

Food is good, but expensive, just know that you are going to have to drop some cash to truly enjoy this place. Also note that portions are small. They are busy, busy, busy. We usually get seated promptly...each employee seems to be doing the best that they can, but the place is usually packed and everyone is running around like crazy. It is not a relaxing experience by far, you are encouraged to eat as fast as possible. It is not a place to go if you want to sit and enjoy your meal.

This is a class A restaurant if you're not in a hurry. The food is excellent, the employees are friendly, and it is exceptionately clean. It is a small establishment, but be forewarned, they will not bring your bill. When you are ready, you simply go to the register, and they will present your bill. You will see children running around, who probably belong to the workers. There is a family feeling in the facility. Very enjoyable!!!