Ballads a perfect match for tacos
Most people need only three things in life to make them happy — Mexican food, romantic music and tequila. If you’re one of these people and you’re reading this article, you’re in luck, because a classic restaurant in Burbank offers those staples and much more on Friday and Saturday nights.
The restaurant I’m talking about is Tequila’s, 4310 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. I’m sure you’ve driven by this colorful establishment many times and wondered what goes on in there when the sun goes down. From 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday nights, there is now free musical entertainment at Tequila’s, featuring the famous Hispanic musician Paco Giron.
While you enjoy your tacos and fajitas, the sweet sounds of Paco’s ballads flow through the restaurant like a cool breeze on a warm summer night. Alternating between traditional Mexican favorites and pop classics, Paco received an enthusiastic round of applause from my crowd for such recognizable favorites as “All My Loving” from the Beatles and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” by the Shirelles. Attempting to name the songs became a humorous drinking game for my companion and me.
Paco’s light music is the perfect complement to the heavy dishes served by the friendly staff at Tequila’s. There is no cover charge, and I suggest you use the extra cash to sample one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails. I broke from tradition and had a blended strawberry margarita. It wasn’t the manliest drink on the menu, but it sure hit the spot.
The beauty of Tequila’s location is that you don’t have to deal with the hassle of parking in downtown Burbank or the crime factor in North Hollywood. When you’re done with dinner, you have the option of getting ice cream at the adjacent Baskin-Robbins or walking across the street to Joe’s Bar & Grill if you want to party deep into the night. My date and I chose the ice cream option.
With the economy still in the tank, people are looking for inexpensive nights out on the town. Having dinner and drinks at Tequila’s while listening to Paco reminded me of a laid-back night in a Laughlin casino lounge without losing any money.
Since Paco is a one-man musical machine, he must take a break now and then. He uses this time to meet the patrons in the restaurant and take requests. If you like what you hear, there is a tip jar on top of his electric piano. Next time I visit, I hope to see that jar filled with more dollars than pesos.
The only drawback is that half the seats don’t face the stage, and the lighting is a little bright for such lovely tunes. Those aren’t complaints, though, just observations.
I’ve been to almost every Mexican restaurant in our area, and I can honestly say Tequila’s has the best casual live entertainment I’ve seen on a weekend night. Like their enchiladas, there is a lot of cheese, but it’s oh so tasty and worth your time and money.