Azteca: Good Food at Great Price
By Colleen Coffield Sachs, Daily News Columnist

CRESTVIEW — With a few exceptions, the further you get away from the beach, the less expensive the restaurant. Even so, I was surprised at how inexpensive Azteca Mexican Restaurant in Crestview was.

On a Tuesday evening visit, all of the combination plates were on special for a flat $5. A meal that included a chile relleno, taco and beef enchilada, rice and refried beans was more than enough food for one. So was the burrito, chalupa, taco and enchilada combo. Combo after combo provided ample portions, and all were $5. Even when they are not on special, combos are a good deal at $6.35 to $7.75.

Another good value is a list of items that are priced individually, but can be made into a combo of four items for a set price. These included chile con carne, tamales, quesadillas, an enchilada burrito, chalupas, tacos, rice and beans.

Good wholesome food was found throughout the menu, and portions were all generous.
These modified versions of Mexican specialties taste good, even if they are not authentic.
Throughout the menu when tortillas were used, they were usually flour tortillas.

As a starter we tried the Nachos Locos, a perfect size for four or more diners as a starter.
A large platter was covered with chips, then loaded with lettuce and tomatoes, guacamole and sour cream, and pickled jalapenos before being topped with grilled beef, chicken and shrimp.

A sampler included flautas, quesadillas, chicken fingers and stuffed jalapenos. Bean dip was creamy, and cheese dip was thick, with a hint of jalapeno.

Most of the dishes at Azteca were mild. In fact, of all the items we tried, the only one that heated things up was the chile relleno. The large, spicy pepper had a tender batter coating and was filled with melted cheese. A Hot & Spicy Burrito is also on the menu, and heat also shows up in Camarones a La Diabla (spicy broiled shrimp).

We found that dishes that include grilled meats are a good bet at Azteca. Our server recommended several, including the fajitas (available with steak, chicken or shrimp).

Two that proved to be very good were the Steak Mexicano and the Carne Asada. The steak was sliced into thin strips and sautéed with tomatoes, onions and peppers. It had a sweet flavor reminiscent of barbecue.

Carne Asada was offered with or without shrimp. A thin steak had been marinated and served with grilled tomatoes, onions and peppers in a sizzling platter. Fresh lime, guacamole, flour tortillas, and rice and beans were sides. The meat was surprisingly tender, and the flavor was good. The shrimp were properly cooked and a nice addition.

Other entrée options include carnitas, broiled grouper, and the decidedly non-Mexican
Chicken fettuccini alfredo. Enchiladas with green or red sauce are also on the menu, as are entrée-size salads.

Azteca has a handful of vegetarian dishes, and a kids menu. Kid’s items include Mexican fare, as well as burgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers and pizza. Lunch specials are offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Two-for-one Margaritas are offered all day Monday through Saturday. There is also a selection of beer and a full service bar.

The dining room at Azteca is spare and functional. Televisions around the dining room show news, sports and popular shows. Service at Azteca was very good. Our server was friendly, and had good suggestions on what to order. All the staff made guests feel welcome and comfortable.

Azteca, which has recently expanded to Brewton, Ala., has basic food done the right way.
You won’t find anything cutting edge or fancy at this family-friendly restaurant, but you will find ample portions of food that taste good at bargain prices.

Azteca Mexican Restaurant
789 North Ferdon Blvd.
Crestview, FL 32536
(850) 682-8206

Hours of operation
Sun-Thurs: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fri & Sat: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Price range

1. Lunch: $4.50 to $8.95
2. Starters: $3.15 to $9.45
3. Entrees: $5.75 to $12.25
4. Salads: $2.75 to $7.50
5. Children’s menu: $2.99

Other information

1. Reservations are not necessary
2. Handicap accessibility
3. Children’s menu
4. All major credit cards accepted