Mexican Food Cooked the Authentic Way.

Walking on the sidewalk by the Big Thompson river, a favorite of mine, the smell of chicken and beef cooking with glazed onions and spices fill my nose and cause a mouth-watering effect.

Casa Grande has set by the river for many many years in Estes Park. It is an authentic, family-owned Mexican restaurant. Walking through the big glass door into the entry way, a male server approaches and says it will be 15 minutes. The dining room has three different sections divided by 4 foot walls. I'm seated at a table in the corner in a chair painted multiple bright colors. On the walls are pictures honoring past family members and Mexican history. It has a home-like feel and puts me quickly at ease.

A young man who welcomes me to his family's restaurant, hands me a menu, water and warm chips with homemade salsa. 10 minutes later a smothered beef burrito fit for two is sat down before me. The burrito is filled with seasoned beef, caramelized onions, cheese, rice, and their homemade red sauce. On top is more sauce, cheese, crisp lettuce and sour cream. Every bite melts in the mouth.

After eating only 1/3 of the meal, I have to put my fork down. The flavors pop and go well together. But I'm so full I can't eat another bite. The young waiter was at my table so many times, I felt like I was the only patron in the room. He talked up the hand-crafted desserts. But I only wanted the check and roll myself out of there.

They have a large menu and beer/wines. The cost is low for Estes Park. Don't eat breakfast if you plan on going here for lunch.

220 E Elkhorn Ave. casagrandemexicana,.com