La Rumba: A Hidden Gem for Latino Cuisine
by Desirae McGee
La Rumba is a hidden gem that truly captures the essence of authentic Latino cuisine. Restaurant owners Reynaldo and Luis hail from Veracruz, Mexico, and have brought their culinary expertise to the forefront by creating a menu full of scratch-made recipes. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you are greeted with warm, friendly faces and a welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel right at home, making it the perfect spot for a family outing or a night out with friends. The decor is vibrant and colorful, with beautiful artwork adorning the walls.
But it's the food that truly sets La Rumba Latino Restaurant apart. Forget about the typical Mexican fare of fajitas, salsa bars, and face-sized burritos. At La Rumba you'll experience something much more authentic and unique. Each dish is bursting with layers of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
Rather than a basket of chips and salsa, you are offered elote, or street corn. A cob is slathered with a cream sauce and then sprinkled with spices for a truly great beginning bite. One of the standout dishes at La Rumba are the Maduros, or sweet plantains. These delectable treats are cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet interior that is sure to please your taste buds. The house-made queso that is used in the nachos is another must-try dish. The cheese is creamy and flavorful, and it pairs perfectly with the crispy tortilla chips.
The Baja tacos are another favorite among patrons of La Rumba. These tacos are bursting with flavor, with tender and juicy pieces of fish that are perfectly seasoned and topped with fresh herbs and spices. Reynaldo also took the time to make us a special dish called Chipotle y media crema, which is sauteed shrimp and a chipotle cream sauce. It was amazing. I tried to lick the plate in the most lady-like way possible, and I’m not sure that I cared how I looked. The attention to detail that comes with each dish is unparalleled, and will leave you excited for the next bite.
The authenticity of the food at La Rumba is incomparable. Not only are the flavors bold and vibrant, the ingredients are of the highest and freshest quality. The owners take pride in sourcing their ingredients locally, ensuring that every dish is fresh and wholesome.
In conclusion, La Rumba is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for an authentic Latino dining experience in Asheville. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a full meal, La Rumba is the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings.
