Tequila Sunrise Mexican Grill
4711 c N Dixie Hwy
Oakland Park FL, 33334
(954) 938-4473
www.tequilasunrise.us
Price: Moderate
Mexican and Tex-Mex eateries seem to be the “it” kids on the South Florida food scene lately. Everywhere one looks, there’s new joint popping up with a nouvelle twist on rice and beans. Some places try like crazy to fancy up the fare: Try our twice cooked frijoles smothered with the finest aged Wisconsin dairy, accompanied by blanco arroz. It’s still beans, cheese, and rice. And rather than paying out the culo for some yuppie nonsense, I’m sticking with the tried and true – Tequila Sunrise.
For the money, food consistency, and preposterously huge Margaritas – you can’t beat Tequila Sunrise Mexican Grill. 
I first fell in love with the place because of the name. I used to get quite hammered on the cocktail, Tequila Sunrise, in my 20s, and since then, I have always held a special place in my liver for them. But nostalgia aside, this place rocks.
First of all, the atmosphere: it’s comfortable and authentic. This place could be in Tijuana, but instead it’s on Dixie Highway, which some may argue, has its similarities. Tucked away in the back end of the House of Ladders Plaza (to get you quickly over the border?) Tequila Sunrise is a Fort Lauderdale icon. In fact, I’ve been going there for over 10 years myself.
fish vera cruzUpon being seated, you’re started off with complimentary chips and fresh salsa. (Be careful with this because here’s a tendency to load up on it and then not have room for your meal. Been there, done that.) The chips are perfect medium thickness – too thin and they snap under the “scooping of the salsa” pressure – too thick and you want to gag. And they are not overly greasy. So right off, they’re doing things right.
Tequila Sunrise prides itself on serving authentic and traditional Mexican food that includes a broad selection of entrees that depict the variety in Mexican cuisine. In other words, it’s not just tacos and enchiladas – although you can get those too. On my last visit I ordered one of my favorite dishes - the Fish Vera Cruz. This marvelous little number 
veggie fajitasconsists of fresh Mahi-Mahi (and truly, the fish is always super fresh - almost a few minutes away from blinking at you). The fish is first grilled, then broiled over fresh tomatoes. It’s served with onions, mild chilies - for just the right amount of “bite” and topped with cilantro. But it’s the dijonnaise glaze that really makes this dish. Pebbly little mustard seeds in the sauce add interest as the flavors of the dijonnaise and mahi do a perfect culinary pas-de-deux on your tongue.
My dining companion, who is vegetarian, was in luck too, as they have a more than an adequate vegetarian menu. She ordered the vegetarian frajitas that come to the table sizzling in a skillet, so you can get a facial and enjoy dinner at the same time, if you are so inclined. There were red peppers, green peppers, onions, mushrooms and tomatoes – oh my! The veggies were cooked properly – just the right amount of life left in them to retain a very slight crispness, thus allowing their individual flavors to be savored. All the usual accouterments - sour cream, pico, cheese were served on the side.
46 oz margaritaBut let’s get to one of the main reasons this place is so popular – MARGARITAS! What’s a Mexican joint without outstanding Margaritas? How about a 46 oz. Margarita for only $7.99? Yes, that’s right – 46 oz’s of pure liquid fun. I had to order one – for this review of course – ‘cause I’m a “hands on” kinda gal - and I had both my hands on this fishbowl of a drink. Here’s my assessment: ARRIBA! They make them here with a fresh squeezed sour mix that tastes so good you can trick yourself into thinking you’re being healthy. I love that. I also love my Margaritas frozen – no salt. Of course, after one, I couldn't care less if it had salt or granite on the rim – as long as there’s another one. But, thankfully, I can only drink one of these – which believe me is plenty. (Make sure you have a designated driver or plan to walk home – slowly, with a walker.)
Happy hour is every day from 3- 7 PM and there’s ALWAYS coupons for this place on the website. (The website has free entrée coupons, drink coupons and cell phone coupons. Certain texted codes will garner you a free Margarita. Hint: check out the website!)
Another thing: If you’re planning a party, get together or celebration of any sort – consider this place. They have two good-sized rooms besides the main dining area that can accommodate your entourage. There’s plenty of parking too – so your guests can spend 
more time having fun and less time swearing and looking for a parking space.
Now I’m dying for a Margarita. And it’s only 11:38 AM. I’m so dedicated.
Tequila Sunrise Mexican Grill
4711 c N Dixie Hwy
Oakland Park FL, 33334
(954) 938-4473
www.tequilasunrise.us
Open Mon-Wed -11:30 AM – 10:00 PM, Thurs-Sat: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM and Sun: 12:00 PM – 10:10 PM.