Centro in downtown Raleigh has been a Mexican staple for years. My first taste of Centro came through a Taste Carolina food tour when it was still named Dos Taquitos. I remember a small chicken tinga taco along with a tamarind margarita. When I want more upscale Mexican I usually end up at Jibarra just because it’s been a long time favorite of mine but yeah, sometimes you gotta switch things up! So finally last week I came in for a full meal at Centro and the place was bustling for a Wednesday night. I grabbed a caipirinha at the bar which took a bit of time but it just meant that the table was ready when my drink arrived. The place is not just busy overall but given the narrow space and tables jammed close together, you’re probably not going to have a real peaceful meal. Decor is heavy on the crosses and the walls are covered with a litany of Central American pieces and knick-knacks, again the key word is busy. But who cares, it’s time to eat right?
I order up some queso and a carnitas plate, pretty basic stuff. The queso is very good, reminds me of the dip at El Rodeo: rich, luscious and just the right consistency. I could probably make a meal of this stuff. The carnitas was interesting, a small crock of rich, fatty pork stewed in a green chile sauce. A side of three small tortillas and sliced veggies (radishes, peppers) finished out the plate. The carnitas was quite tender but I wished the sauce had a bit more kick; overall a solid effort.
Service was decent at the table, a definite improvement from the bar. But I have to say I totally understand why I prefer Jibarra. Similar food, but Jibarra has a lot more space and probably a bigger menu. Oh and lower prices too, probably at least a dollar or two across the board. Throw in the specials Jibarra usually has and it might be a lot cheaper. So yeah, I like Centro and if you’re downtown it’s a good choice for upscale Mexican. Just be willing to pay a bit more money and deal with a bit more noise, mi amigo.
Manuel M says
Thanks for sharing this review. I’m a fan of Jibarra myself. I think it’s better suited for bigger dinner parties, of course and it’s a completely different restaurant concept altogether. I like Centro’s decor, thinking it makes for an intimate setting IF you can go there at a time when it’s not full which can be a challenge. I can’t say I was blown away by the food, but I’ve not tried too many things on the menu yet.
RonW says
Hey Manuel, thanks for the comment and yes, I’m in your camp too. Been going to Jibarra since they moved to the Warehouse District and it works in so many ways: restaurant, lounge, brunch, date spot. But yeah, Centro would be fun if it weren’t totally jammed but it usually is as you mention. For the money, Jibarra is still a better deal and have you done their Taco Tuesday?! Really good…
Jim says
The food at Centro is absolutely the best Mexican-based (other South American influences) in Raleigh. you can find cheaper, more Tex-Mex but not better. It can be crowded but eat late or early and you can solve that problem.
RonW says
Thanks for the comment, Jim! I’ve eaten there several times and have definitely enjoyed it but yeah, I’d prefer my dinners to be a bit more relaxed. Timing is everything, I guess…