Mexican fare happens to be one of my favorites, so it was with great anticipation that I headed out to partake in an authentic meal at Los Pinos in Cameron Park.

The restaurant opened its doors in March of 2012 and I’m truly glad they did.

The simple-yet-pleasing dining room was comfortably full as my dining partner and I were seated in a cozy booth. From the time we entered the front doors and throughout the entire meal, the customer service was top-notch.

While we browsed the menu – featuring a nice variety of Latin fusion and Mexican dishes – we enjoyed our cold drinks and fresh tortilla chips with three dipping options: two delicious salsas and a refried bean mix. I chose the Basa Tacos entrée, which included two grilled basa filets (basa is a type of catfish) on open flour tortillas filled with red cabbage, onions, cilantro and sliced avocados. A side of spicy chili sauce complemented the fresh and perfectly cooked fish. The meal also included cilantro rice and black beans sprinkled with melted cheese. This entrée could easily become one of Los Pinos’ signature items. My girlfriend chose the Chili Verde Burrito, which was filled with chunks of tender pork sautéed in chili verde salsa then topped with cheese and sour cream. With the same sides, this was another superb dish that satisfied the taste buds.

The restaurant also features a nice bar area with a weekday Happy Hour from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. While I didn’t get a chance to sample the goods during this visit, I made definite plans to return. Los Pinos has laid a great foundation for excellent customer service and delicious food – two must-have items for all dining experiences.

Los Pinos Restaurant & Bar, 3420 Palmer Drive, Cameron Park, 530-672-1403, lospinosincameronpark.com.

Do you know that our editorial is not paid for, nor can it be purchased? In fact, our Introducing and Dine reviews are not paid advertisements. If you’d like your business profiled, please email Wendy Sipple at [email protected]. Once we determine when your business will be featured, we will contact you to schedule a time to come out and take a photograph. Thank you!