The first crispy tacos (a la Taco Bell) were invented in San Bernadino, California at Mitlas Café (founded in 1937). The Denver fried taco is credited to the family that owns the Mexico City Lounge in Denver and the ingredients are the same: crispy shell, spiced ground beef, iceberg lettuce, grated yellow cheese and salsa. In Denver, however, the tacos are fried on one side until the cheese melts out the sides and crisps and, for this reason, they are simply better. The fried steak taco at Mexico City Lounge is one of the great contributions by Americans to Mexican cuisine. Do not leave Denver without trying a tray of four or five of these addictive beauties.

jeffrey_merrihue

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