Olé Pozolé

This post was originally written for inclusion on the Virginia-Highland Civic Association website on May 1, 2013:

Tucked away behind some of the neighborhood’s more raucous eating establishments is one of Virginia-Highland’s hidden jewels, Pozolé Restaurant. This family friendly eatery is named after a Mexican specialty made with hominy (alkali-treated corn) and is served on special occasions. “Party soup” seems to be a good depiction of this restaurant’s kitschy, rustic décor and affable staff.

The bold cantina-style offerings range from plates of Chiliqules to al la carte salsas, tacos and quesadillas which truly provide something for every appetite. A kids’ menu illustrated by a staff member features kid-friendly eats and activities which, along with craft paper on the tables and plenty of crayons, keep fidgety youngsters (and parents) occupied. Their freshly prepared pineapple salsa is just one example of the mild yet flavorful fare that can be enjoyed by kids as well as adults. They gladly shared the recipe with us:

Pineapple Salsa

• 2 cups grilled pineapple, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, de-seeded and finely diced
• ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 red onion, finely diced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼  teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ cup pineapple or lime juice

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix together well. Refrigerate until ready to serve with crispy tortilla chips or as a compliment to grilled fish, chicken or rice.

Pozolé is well known for their sociable, artsy staff headed by Manager Susannah Aaron who is fiercely protective of her younger patrons. She censors both the jukebox and the large television in the main dining area during family time. As the evening wears on, however, the clientele and the atmosphere mature as dating couples and late night roisterers enjoy Latin noshes and margaritas at the Tequila bar.

To celebrate Mexican heritage and pride, Pozolé (along with Creative Loafing and Limerick Junction) is hosting the 6th annual Cinco de Mayo Block Party which begins at 2:00 pm on Saturday, May 4th with face painting and balloon artists. “Cinco en Cuatro” will also feature bands Rocksploitation, Unzipt, Lunatics and others both inside and out. For more information, visit http://pozolerestaurant.com.