Fuego Cocina y Tequileria

2800 Clarendon blvd Suite 800 - Clarendon, VA 22201
  • $$
  • Rating Distribution
    5 stars
    23
    4 stars
    40
    3 stars
    9
    2 stars
    1
    1 star
    0

Fire-Kissed Mexican Cuisine and An Impressive Tequila Bar

Highlights

  • Can’t make up your mind over which tequila to try? Get a tasting flight of three selections laid out on a wooden paddleboard with a shot of tangy sangrita.
  • Mexican restaurants aren’t renowned for their desserts, but Fuego offers several well-executed classics that are worth ordering. The best is a moist tres leches cake with a crème brûlée top, cream cheese frosting, and a swipe of guava sauce.
  • If Heat Seekers is your favorite show, then request some off-menu ghost chili relish. Be warned: you should order a frosty beverage (or two) to accompany the spicy condiment.

Good to Know

  • A selection of inventive tequila cocktails includes hot-to-trot options like the Gherkin Fresca spiked with jalapeno simple syrup and the Mala Suerte with habanero-infused tequila.
  • There’s an elevator in the far back, so elderly or disabled patrons can easily access the dining room on the second floor.
  • The 60+ wine list is full of West Coast and South American varietals, many of which are available by the glass.

Full Overview

If you would like to make a reservation for a larger party size, please call the restaurant directly.   Good Mexican food is equal parts wild and mild. The citrus tang of freshly squeezed lime juice takes the fiery after burn out of the tequila in a margarita, while hints of habanero and onion add spark to tilapia ceviche. Arlington’s Fuego Cocina y Tequileria fires up traditionally inspired South of the Border dishes and drinks that revel in that harmony. The flavors here are deep, fulfilling and vibrant -- the result of hours of meticulous preparation. Pork butt for the tacos al pastor is spit-roasted between layers of vinegary onions. A whole pineapple skewered above it infuses a subtle tropical flavor. The young goat in the carnitas spends three or four hours slowly stewing in a copper pot, seasoned with citrus, bay leaf, peppercorn and garlic. The unexpected addition of evaporated milk gives the tenderized meat a touch of sweetness. Both dishes are built on freshly made corn tortillas griddled to order by two specialized staffers. These shareable small plates are well complemented by a tequila menu 120 options long, as well as a strong selection of Mexican beers and frozen margaritas.  Divided into the Tequileria bar downstairs and the upstairs Cocina dining room, the bi-leveled eatery is highlighted with flashes of color and light. A sky blue mural dotted with Day of the Dead imagery keeps you company as you spiral up the staircase to the second floor, where you’ll find red fixtures and a glassed-in bank of flame running across the back of the room.  It’s all about striking a balance.  

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