By Lee Cole
According to the website for Sol Aztecas Grill and Cantina, the proprietors have tried to create a place “where gastronomy and good times come together.” Being a fan of generally fun things, as well as people who use the word gastronomy, I was excited to see what Sol Aztecas had to offer. As best I can tell, given my meager credentials when it comes to the Spanish language, Sol Aztecas means Aztec Sun. Of course, the Aztecs were an ethnic group that ruled over large parts of Mexico and Central America from around the 13th century until the 16th century. Whether or not some ancient Aztec magic is used in the creation of their dishes is a mystery to me.
While the restaurant has two locations – one on Bardstown Road and one on Frankfort Avenue – I went to the restaurant’s Frankfort Avenue location. The first thing I noticed upon entering was the vibrant color scheme. The décor was colorful and the atmosphere fun, but it could become quite loud at times. Although I hadn’t heard of Sol Aztecas prior to a week ago, I was lured in by the promise of reasonably priced Mexican cuisine and the offer of two margaritas for the price of one. However, I wasn’t prepared for the enormous portions or for just how good the food would be.
Prices vary depending on the dish, but most fall between $10 and $15. While this is slightly more than your average fast food Mexican restaurant, the food was well worth the extra money. I ordered the fajita sandwich, which consisted of cheese, bite-sized pieces of seasoned steak, and sauteed onions and green peppers, all between slices of toasted bread. After snacking on the chips and salsa brought out prior to the meal, the dish was a little daunting. Most of the entrees came out on huge platters and, in some cases, what looked like casserole dishes. Some of the portions were so large that I questioned whether or not a human stomach would be capable of containing them. As it turned out, most of my dinner companions ended up needing carryout boxes.
Overall, the prices were very reasonable, the staff was polite and patient, and I left stuffed and happy. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a gastronomical adventure combined with a fun and vibrant atmosphere. I give Sol Aztecas four out of five stars.
