I have been on a new quest: to search for the best taco in our nation’s capital. As an Ottawa resident for over 10 years, I am happy to report that I have found my five-star pick for Ottawa’s best taco. Ottawa has many amazing bistros and restaurants, but, when it comes to quality, if you have also been seeking Ottawa’s best taco, don’t deprive yourself anymore. Head to Si Señor on Rideau Street.

Having learned to prepare Mexican cuisine from a local chef who is from Mexico City, I have developed a critical appreciation of the difference between authentic Mexican fare and the Tex-Mex fast food which seems to dominate Ottawa's restaurant scene. I can tell you that Si Señor is the real deal when it comes to the kind of authentic Mexican food which has been lacking in Ottawa.

Are you seeking an alternative to fast-food-style Tex-Mex?

Have you ever actually had authentic Mexican food?

Well, if you answered yes to at least one of these questions, I have a great surprise for you.

I highly recommend schlepping to Si Señor to check out their chorizo taco, and also ask for their Aztec soup.

I had never heard of Mexican soup before. As a foodie, curiosity got the better of me and I decided to try it.

And I kid you not, I was blown away by this soup. I had to tell the restaurant staff right there that their soup was tantamount to a spiritual experience. It was also very comforting and just what you need to warm you up this winter, and further energize your mind, body, and soul all year round. This may sound exaggerated or crazy to you, but I'm serious.

And Si Señor's chorizo taco is definitely the real deal.

Chorizo is a highly seasoned chopped or ground pork sausage used in Spanish and Mexican cuisine. Mexican chorizo is made with fresh (raw, uncooked) pork, while the Spanish version is usually smoked.

Mexican chorizo is generally seasoned with vinegar and chili peppers. In contrast, Spanish chorizo is made with garlic and pimento.

My first impression of Si Señor was that it was warm and inviting. Service at Si Señor is very friendly and the Mexican art throughout Chef Hugo's restaurant serves to reinforce the authentic ingredients and preparation that restaurant-goers can expect there. Chef Hugo takes pride in the quality and authenticity of his Mexican food in a manner that's second to no other Latin American restaurant in our nation's capital.

So, what are you waiting for?

Save the Tex Mex fast food for another time.Take a trip to Rideau Street near the bridge that goes to Vanier, and get delicious food from Mexico right here in Ottawa.

Address: 506 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON K1N 5Z7

Menu: restozone.ca

Reservations: restozone.ca

Order: restozone.ca, foodora.ca, skipthedishes.com

Phone: (613) 421-7490