El Camino Real: A Great Mexican Eatery in Philly

On the recommendation of my friend Dana,

the hubby and I stopped in for a bite at El Camino Real in Philly.

Known for delicious Mexican food and Texas BBQ,

it's located in the Northern Liberties neighborhood at 1040 North 2nd Street. 

Very cool hand-painted window murals!

Carnitas?

My vegetarian choice - yummy cactus & sweet potato burritos.

The casual, hip atmosphere and bandito murals brought to mind

Clint Eastwood and spaghetti westerns.

As I turned a corner, the vibe was confirmed~

Links:

Website

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A Fabulous Lunch at El Vez in Philly

We fell in love with El Vez!

This Starr Restaurant is located at 121 S. 13th St. in Philadelphia.

They claim it's where "Mexican-American meets East L.A. in a Tijuana Taxi!"

Located on the corner of this city block, the bright mosaic entrance attracts attention.

Zooming in: a delight for mosaic fans like me.

The decor packs a punch: more mosaic, retro vibes & purple velvet.

A groovy rotating banana-seated bike is the bar's centerpiece. 
Such a funky, artsy, energetic atmosphere!

We ensconced ourselves in a swanky gold-velvet banquette.

Notice the fabulous wall art.

Lots of mini dioramas depicting the Dia De La Meurta of Mexico.

Our meals were excellent! And the service? The best!

Looking forward to gathering some friends for a return visit!

More here:

Website

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Southwest Baked Eggrolls

I came across this recipe online at Taste of Home.

Made a few minor tweaks and put it together in no time.

It took a while to figure out the rolling of the wrappers,

but don't worry; by the time I was on the last one, I finally got the hang of it!

Vegetarian deliciousness! The whole family was impressed.

Southwest Baked Eggrolls

1 can corn, drained
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 pkg. frozen chopped spinach, thaw & squeeze dry
1 1/2 C shredded Mexican cheese blend
1 can chopped green chilies, drained
4 green onions, chopped
1/4 C chopped fresh cilantro
1 t cumin
1/2 t chili powder
1/4 t cayenne
1 t salt
1/2 t pepper
1 pkg egg roll wrappers

In a large bowl, combine everything but the egg roll wrappers.
Place 1/4 C mixture in center of a wrapper.
Follow package directions on how to fold it closed.
Dip your finger in water to moisten wrapper and seal.

Place seam-side down on baking sheet generously coated with cooking spray.
Bake at 425 degrees F for 10-15 minutes,
turning halfway through baking, until light golden brown.

Frida Kahlo

MyPinkTurtleStudio

During this time of year, the people of Mexico are preparing for their

November 2nd holiday, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). 

They hold festivals to celebrate the dead, who are symbolized by skeletons.

Mexican artist Frida Kahlo painted with a surrealist style, 

closely connected with the mysticism of Mexican folk art. 

She is often linked to these Day of the Dead celebrations.

A colorful character herself, Frida is known for her bright clothing, 

large flower headpieces, severely center-parted black hair, 

and her trademark heavy, meet-in-the-middle eyebrows. 

I found some great Frida Kahlo art and gifts on Etsy. 

Each caption will link you to the Etsy shop. Enjoy!

LennyMud

LeatherArts

ALittleVintageStore

Yalipaz

Tascha

BMiZenDesigns

ValNorthwoods

ShesSoCali

HeatherGallerArt