I hesitate to use the phrase hidden gem too often, but occasionally I do find something that feels like it’s flying under the radar (to me, at least!) and deserves more attention. And such is the case for Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill in Northland, where we just had a stellar meal. Even within the first few bites we were discussing when we could return to try even more.
Terra Mezcal may not look like much from the outside, but she’s got it where it counts. They had to change from their original name of Casa Mezcal due to potential legal issues, so the already-sparse signage out front is partially painted over. But just look for the brick red building with a fake palm trees, and you’re there!
Inside it’s wide open and colorful, with a big mural across one wall. The space is filled with the buzz of music and conversation.
Terra Mezcal offers a full bar with cocktails, beers, and wines.
And true to their name, they feature a healthy selection of mezcals as well. The owner Alfredo helpfully suggested a couple to try, and walked us through how to properly taste them.
We then moved on to a pair of house cocktails, the Dance with the Devil and the Mango Mezcal. Both featured Mezcal, of course, and were delightfully smooth.
The Dance with the Devil arrives dramatically at the table, with a sprig of rosemary brightly burning.
We started with the shrimp ceviche appetizer. It’s delightfully fresh, with a nice bit of zest to it.
The chicharron and guacamole was some of our favorite we’ve had. Aside from the well-done guacamole, the chicharrones were alternately crispy and tender.
And then it was time for the entrees! Our oldest dug in to the tomatillo supreme burrito, big enough for two meals.
Our youngest loved the birria tacos with added sides of rice and beans. The birria is served with a small cup of their consume for dipping.
My wife and I split a trio of street tacos and loved each one: chorizo, carnitas, and birria.
But the real showstopper was Mama Inez’s mole enchiladas. They’re loaded with chicken and dowsed in a homemade mole, simmered over hours with a mix of chiles, spices, and even chocolate. It’s so delightfully rich, and even days later I find myself still thinking about the dish.
And as if that wasn’t enough, we finished with the meal with an excellent slice of tres leches…
…and fresh and warm churros!
I love that one wall of the space is dedicated to a mural that shows how mezcal is made.
Terra Mezcal is open Sunday-Thursday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Get a good look at Terra Mezcal on my Instagram here!
Terra Mezcal
2171 E. Dublin Granville Rd.
Columbus, OH 43229
Web: terramezcal.com
FB: Terra Mezcal
IG: @terramezcal