I visited Madre shortly after they opened to try out their happy hour. I was impressed by the decor, the drinks, and the food. Some of my friends have confirmed their positive experience and it was always my intention to return. It took a while, but my wife and I recently dined there.
Nopalitos or cactus is a popular item to eat in the southwest. I’ve ordered this dish twice in Arizona restaurants and disliked the taste and the texture. I was very happy that Madre’s version was fresh and flavorful. The combination of pico de gallo, avocado and queso fresco significantly enhanced the dish.
If you enjoy mole as we do, the plate to order is the Pecado de Moles. Diners can choose up to three moles that can be served with chicken or pork and rice. My wife selected estafado, negro and rojo as her three-mole sauces. Of the three, we both agreed that our favorites in order of preference were the rojo, estafado, and negro. This was a big surprise for me because I am a big fan of mole negro.
Tlayuda is a traditional Oaxacan dish consisting of a large toasted tortilla covered with refried beans, lettuce or cabbage, avocado, tomatoes, meat, Oaxaca cheese, and salsa. The Tlayuda Madre was prepared on an oversized toasted flour tortilla and included chorizo, cecina (marinated pork), and tasajo (thinly sliced grilled beef). This dish is something between nachos and a tostada.
The menu is extensive and well organized. Depending on your mood and appetite, you can choose from appetizers, small plates, soups, entrees, mole and dishes for the veteran mole diner. Vegetarian dishes are clearly marked on the menu. Fri/Sat/Sun dishes include Pollo Enchilado and Barbacoa de Lengua.
Besos de Mezcal is Spanish for ‘mezcal kisses’. This is a Mexican expression meaning a strong, smoky spirit and is meant to be sipped slowly. The drink was strong, smoky, and yet smooth. The Madre Margarita was made with Tequila Reposado and the rim was lined with spicy salt. Grapefruit juice and club soda are mixed with mezcal to make their version of the Paloma. All of the drinks we tried were excellent.
In addition to their cocktails, they have an impressive selection of craft mezcal and tequila. Madre makes tasting premier mezcal and tequila quite easy because they offer them in 1 oz and 2 oz portions. Beer, wine, and prosecco are also available.
As you could imagine, we were full and unable to try their dessert offerings. We missed out on the opportunity to try their Mezcal Flan and the Tres Leches Cake.
Madre is located in Old Town Torrance on Cabrillo Ave. Free parking is available in the lot accessible from Cabrillo Ave and many of the slots are dedicated for Madre customers.
Madre, 1261 Cabrillo Ave #100, Torrance, CA 90501
madrerestaurants.com