Northshore magazine showcases the best that the North Shore of Boston, MA has to offer.
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/60293
including the Waldrons' own habanero salsas. "Like" Comida on Facebook and get 10 percent off on second and fourth Fridays, or pop in for $2.50 "Taco Tues- days." 131 Essex St., Salem, 978- 594-8220, comidasalem.com. The Happy Taco Food trucks are just getting a foothold in mariscos del caribe, agave Boston, but Travis Grandon stayed local when launching the Happy Taco late last summer in Gloucester. While this bright yellow trailer might draw you in with your eyes, what really should be leading you is your stomach. It's no surprise that one specialty is the fish taco, done right: California-style with crisp, pickled red on- ions and lightly battered cod that Grandon gets from local day boat fishermen. The carne asada taco was inspired by the fare in magical Rosarito Beach in Baja. Grandon admits his philosophy of global hand-held street food is based simply on what he likes to eat—and the man has phenomenal taste. Track down the Happy Taco on Twitter, @HappyTaco_Glo, or at thehappytaco.com. Howling Wolf A gathering spot for students, families, bell peppers, tomatoes, and olives. If it's classic Mexican you crave, several varie- ties of enchiladas and a make-your-own menu of burritos or quesadillas will fit the bill. Wash it all down with a cold Chelada: beer with lime juice over ice with a salted rim. 150 Cabot St., Beverly, 978-922-4657, cielitolindogrill.com. Cilantro Holding court on a busy street in Salem for over 10 years, Cilantro has seen its share of change in the local dining scene. But this cozy, white-tablecloth restaurant is still going strong, serving up Mediterranean- inspired Mexican that offers a taste of the traditional with a twist. Expect everything from ceviche to tamales to albondigas de chipotle—cheese-stuffed meatballs cooked in a smoky chipotle pepper sauce. Owner and chef Esther Marin is always ex- perimenting with new dishes, so the menu 140 changes regularly. Cilantro is a fine-dining experience worthy of a lingering sip of anejo tequila and crispy sweet churros for dessert. 282 Derby St., Salem, 97- 745-9436, cilantrocilantro.com. Comida Mexican Taqueria If you find yourself hungry and meander- ing through Salem after a visit to the Pea- body Essex Museum, look no further than Comida Mexican Taqueria, conveniently located a few doors down. A counter with several stools makes grabbing a quick bite easy, or you can grab take out (patrons can order in advance online). Comida is run by the Waldron family with a focus on locally sourced products, including produce from the Waldrons' own farm. Check out fun events like "Holy Guaca- mole" to learn how to make your own, or "Heat Night," a sampling of hot sauces, the howling wolf burrito and couples, Howling Wolf covers all the bases: It's spacious, has a hip and casual vibe, and offers live music on select nights. After smoothing out a few initial opening bumps, the food and service have fallen into their groove. The vegetarian posole, a red chile stew with vegetables and hominy, wins high marks, as does the Howling Wolf burrito with shredded beef, pinto beans,