Monte De Rey - Winston Salem

I have only visited this location of a small chain of Mexican restaurants once, though I did dine at the location in Clemmons, also once that will suffice I think! While the meal was not bad Birria Stew), the experience was not all that good service was slow and indifferent! The way it is configured, and where it is located, makes this a spot hard to really be comfortable with. While Birria Tacos have become all the rage, popping up everywhere over the last several years, the actual Birria Stew from which the tacos and consommé are derived is not found on many menus in the area. The dish as prepared in our area, and in most of the US, differs from the traditional versions found in the Mexican state of Jalisco, and is more in line with those that come from Tijuana, using beef and more liquid. Beef is the meat most often used here, while in Mexico the meat is more often goat, cow 's head, even mutton. Goat was introduced in Mexico by Cortes and thrived. The Spanish were not enthralled by the toughness and strong flavor of the goat meat the Spanish word birria means worthless or rubbish! The makeup of spices and other items may vary some, while the constant ingredient is a healthy amount of dried, red chiles roasted and then pureed), providing the definitive red tint to the stew, and thus the consommé. Vinegar, cumin, Mexican oregano, onions, cilantro, and garlic are also common items. The Birria Stew prepared by this restaurant though there is more red pepper tint and taste here than most) and the Birria Tacos here and at other area restaurants) simply is not the authentic version some want to label it not saying it is bad, just don 't throw around the term authentic, without first identifying what authentic comprises! My late wife and I would look at each other after visiting a restaurant and ask would you come back here I would not, and it is not a one dish thing!i

The food was excellent, the service was satisfactory, and the company was even better. If I find myself back in WS, I would likely return.

The issue with incorrect or missing items in takeout orders persists. Last night, we didn’t receive the rice that was supposed to come with our pollo chipotle order. While the food was good once again, it’s crucial that they double-check the orders before handing them over to customers.

One downside is the location’s convenience; it’s situated in the center of the shopping area, and I'm uncertain if there are any designated handicap parking spots available, which is something to keep in mind. I opted to sit on the patio, which was pleasant and dog-friendly, but despite plenty of servers around, we waited a solid 20 minutes without chips. By the time they arrived, the queso was cold, and I expected chips to be the first item on the table. The drinks, while not made from overly sweet artificial margarita mix, also didn't impress. On the positive side, the salsa was fresh and delicious. The guacamole tasted great too, but its smooth texture was a bit off for my taste; I prefer chunky guacamole, which made me question its freshness—it reminded me of the packaged kind from the store. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the flavor, but some chunkiness would enhance it. For my entree, I ordered the Quesabirria, and it was really good! It came with three tacos, double-wrapped in tasty corn tortillas, griddled with a flavorful consommé, and generously filled with tender meat and melted cheese. The consommé was thick and hearty, clinging nicely to the tortilla, and I appreciated the cilantro and onions in the broth. Personally, I would have liked extra cilantro and onions on the tacos, but I suppose I could have requested that. I also ordered a side of rice, but they initially brought me fries. Thankfully, the rice didn’t take too long to arrive after that slip-up. While the rice was decent, it wasn’t my favorite—it could have used a bit more flavor. My friend ordered the ACP Texano and enjoyed it. I've had some decent experiences at Monte D's, but I haven't been overwhelmingly impressed. It’s a convenient option for a quick meal, but with so many similar restaurants in the area, I'm not sure this one stands out enough. I enjoy the cuisine, but there’s definitely room for improvement to reach that next level of greatness!

Drinks are very good. I went there for the food I got two tacos beef with rice an beans my taco shell was very stale. Had to return my food. Our cheese dip was cold but they warned it up for us.Service is okay!