La Viga Seafood & Cocina Mexicana — Restaurant in Redwood City

My gastronomic adventures led me to La Viga Restaurant in the heart of Redwood City, a place renowned for its vibrant culinary scene. As a gourmet enthusiast and a wine lover, I was intrigued by La Viga's reputation for exceptional Latin cuisine, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list and an innovative cocktail menu. Though primarily not a wine-centric establishment, I was pleasantly surprised by the selection of wines, including a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from Matanzas Creek Winery in Sonoma County and a robust Tempranillo Rioja from Vina Bujanda in Spain.

Upon entering La Viga, I was immediately enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The decor was a lively blend of rustic charm and contemporary flair, creating a welcoming and stylish space. The buzz of happy diners added to the ambiance, setting the stage for a memorable culinary experience.

The evening started with an exploration of their cocktail list, which was an array of original creations. Each cocktail was a testament to the mixologists' creativity, blending traditional Latin flavors with modern mixology techniques. The cocktails were not just drinks; they were a celebration of innovation and flavor.

Our culinary journey began with an assortment of tacos, each made with homemade corn tortillas that were a delight in themselves – soft, warm, and aromatic. The Al Pastor was a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, the marinated pork complemented by the tang of pineapple. The Pancita, with its rich and savory flavors, was a bold choice that paid off beautifully. The Pescado taco, featuring delicately seasoned fish, was a lighter yet equally flavorful option, while the Asada was a classic done right – tender and packed with flavor.

The main dishes were a grand display of La Viga's culinary prowess. The Bistec con Papas richness perfectly offset by the accompanying sides. The Dorado a las Brasas, a grilled mahi-mahi, was a standout – the fish was flawlessly cooked, its natural flavors enhanced but not overpowered by the grilling process.

Pairing these dishes with the Sauvignon Blanc and the Tempranillo Rioja was an enjoyable challenge. The Sauvignon Blanc, with its crisp acidity and citrus notes, was a refreshing counterpart to the richer dishes like the Pancita and Bistec con Papas. The Tempranillo, on the other hand, with its depth and body, stood up well to the robust flavors of the Asada and Dorado a las Brasas.

As the evening progressed, I was impressed by the seamless service and the staff's knowledge of the menu. Their recommendations were spot-on, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal.

Leaving La Viga, I reflected on the delightful surprise this visit had been. While not traditionally a wine-centric restaurant, La Viga offered a wine experience that was both unexpected and satisfying, perfectly complementing their exquisite Latin cuisine. The innovative cocktails, the variety of dishes, and the vibrant atmosphere all came together to create an exceptional dining experience – one that I would...

When the impromptu "back-up" plan to grab Mexican food yields a deliciously satisfying culinary experience...delightfully better results than expected! Brilliant!!

La Viga is not the small neighborhood Taqueria. I'd say it more of a genuine dine-in restaurant with some very tasty food. I'm not too sure if the restaurant is all that big inside, as we opted to sit outside and enjoy a very pleasant day. La Viga is located at the edge or downtown RWC. They are as well prepared for COVID as can be. The service was pleasant, the staff checked up on us frequently always insuring our water was filled and clearing out empty dishes without being intrusive or overbearing.

The FOODIE Stuff:

~ Chips & Salsa - 5/5 Brilliant! Very tasty...with a slight kick to it. The Salsa is made in House! We inquired...I'm not sure about the chips, but no complaints on that front either. We did find it a bit strange to see La Viga charge for Hips & Salsa instead of offering them as complementary appetizers like many other places. No complaints after obliterating the salsa!

~ Ceviche: Coctel Mixto - 5/5 Very good balanced mix of seafood. Great flavor and very satisfying! One of the better Ceviche I had in a while. The sauce was so tasty, we ended dipping the chips in it.

~ Cochinita Pibil - 5/5 I had no idea what Yucatan style stew was...I still have no idea! But I'll take 10! or as many as I can finish... Apparently this is a Pork Stew...so tender, just fell apart (good thing) melted in my mouth. Brilliant! Juicy, full of flavor...will make you smile and your tongue dance with joy! I can't say anything bad about this dish.

Based on our experience I'd say, I'll most definitely be back to try other items on the menu! The high ratings and glowing reviews...

La Viga Seafood & Cocina Mexicana is a must-visit restaurant in Redwood City, California, for anyone who loves seafood and authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant boasts an extensive menu of delicious dishes, including ceviche, seafood tacos, grilled fish, and more, all of which are prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional Mexican flavors.

The restaurant's ambiance is cozy and inviting, with a warm and rustic decor that creates a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. The service is attentive and friendly, making you feel right at home from the moment you step inside.

While the food at La Viga is undeniably delicious, it is worth noting that it is a bit pricier than other Mexican restaurants in the area. However, the quality of the food and the experience makes it well worth the extra expense.

The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold and authentic, making La Viga a great place to come with friends or family for a special occasion or a memorable night out. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of drinks, including signature cocktails, margaritas, and a variety of Mexican beers and wines.

Overall, La Viga Seafood & Cocina Mexicana is a gem of a restaurant that should not be missed by anyone visiting or living in Redwood City. The combination of fresh seafood, authentic Mexican flavors, and inviting ambiance make it a standout dining destination that is...