With more and more swaths of State Street real estate being bought by national and international chain stores, it's becoming more and more difficult for local businesses to have any success. As an example, look on the two-block strip of State between Lake Street and Gilman Street; where one will discover no less than seven national chain stores vying for consumer dollars.
Though the restaurant industry is not immune to this phenomenon, (See chain burrito store one and chain burrito store two), Madison's local restaurants have remained somewhat intact, with some even thriving. An example of this is the thrifty and delicious Casa de Lara, 341 State St.
Located on the corner of State and Gorham and situated on the second floor, the restaurant itself is pleasantly distant from the ground level of State where busses and people too often detract from the dining experience.
Further distancing one from the noise of the street below is the interior design, which consists of a decent blend of taupe, Mexican decor and modern angles. Seating is rarely a problem as there are plenty of booths and tables to choose from. The large confines also contain a fine bar with what is reputedly the largest tequila collection in the state.
After one look at the menu, patrons will realize that there are two distinct paths of dining: What the students can afford and what the suburbanites can afford. But students need not fear: Casa de Lara offers the Madison diner craving a taste for Mexican some excellent dinner options that will not send your wallet south-of-the-border.
Notable among the entrees are the burritos, which are packed with as much meat, beans and rice as one tortilla can hold. These burritos are so stuffed, you can definitely get your fill with the standard burrito platter consisting of a burrito, rice and refried beans.
However, if one's size more resembles Horatio Sanz than Jimmy Fallon, an appetizer is advisable. Try the nachos.
What's most remarkable about Casa de Lara is the lack of attention it garners. It very quietly sits back and watches while the two burrito chains squabble and bicker over specials and \burrito envy."" Meanwhile, those in the know head up a stairway to burrito heaven and enter into a feast for both the eyes and the stomach; one of nacho and burrito-filled days followed by tequila and Tecate-filled nights.
Brian Lauvray is a senior majoring in history. He would love to hear from you, so drop him a line at bllauvray@wisc.edu.
