February 29, 2013 - Guadalupe, Sylva NC 

What can I say about  this place but that it is eclectic  fun and different from your run of the meal Southern fried, meat and potatoes food gallery you find? It is unassuming and unless  you are looking for it, you might just  overlook it. From the name,  one would think Mexican fare were served here. But not so my friend. Guadalupe offers an abundance of dishes influenced from much farther south.. and east (if my geography serves me right). This place is a much hidden treasure with a laid back style  often only found in larger cities. 

If you are in a hurry.. then go somewhere else. For here, you will be waited on and served, but all at a leisurely pace. This gives  you time to check out the decor, talk  and visit with your meal company, or chat up the staff. Cause they are friendly and open to stopping and chatting awhile. And in this "hurry up and give it to me yesterday" world, we could all use a time to operate at a slower pace. 

Guadalupe describes their restaurant as  Caribbean inspired fusion. In my mind, this just equals fun.  

 From their brightly decorated booths, lanterns, and walls, to their wall gallery featuring local artwork for sale, this is one place on your list, you do not want to miss.  

Guadalupe has not been in operation long, and they are located in the old Hoopers drugstore building. While many locals do miss these types of establishments ( me being one of them), they did keep the checkered floors, the old soda fountain (decoration only) and the bar stools. So, while they are at the other end of the food spectrum from hotdogs, sodas, and grilled pimento cheese sandwiches, they did pay homage to the former old timey joint. 

One fantastic aspect of Guadalupes is that the food is  all  farm to table whenever possible. This means that all their food is local, homegrown, and organic when it is available. This is a fabulous concept and quality to possess. Let me tell  you.. this declaration makes for some mighty tasty dishes. 

They offer custom burritos, nachos and burritos, as well as tapas and entrees. They do offer specials, depending on what is available in the garden in season. This means that vegan and vegetarians can find great dishes to pick from here.  Another great element of Guadalupe is their diverse selection of wines from Spain and Latin America as well as their selections of micro brewed beers from across America, including local varieties. 

HOMEMADE SALSA PLATE - VERY YUMMY!! WE WERE WISHING IT WAS LARGER. 

They also have local music on a sporadic basis, but when you can hit it on a music night, it couldn't get any better. Cause WNC has some kick ass bands. Bluegrass, Country, Alternative, you name it. Great stuff.

SOME OF THE LIGHTS HANGING ON THE CEILING

When you get to hang with good friends, listen to good music and eat fabulous food, what more in life could you want? I highly recommend Guadalupe. I have posted a link to their menu so you all can check it out for yourself. http://www.guadalupecafe.com/GuadalupeCafeMenu.pdf

ADOBO PORK TOSTADA 

ADOBO PORK TOSTADA

BLACKENED PLANTAIN

SESAME SALAD 

NACHOS

BERRY COBBLER - IT WAS BERRY, BERRY GOOD

MEXICAN CHOCOLATE CAKE