It is pretty easy to miss Pollo Azado when you’re driving down North Avenue. But the hidden gem, located at 304 North Avenue, is only a short walk away from campus for CMU students. With a very reasonably priced menu and student specials, this place is great for CMU students who want an authentic Mexican meal.
Their menu is simple, cheap and delicious. Customers looking to spend a bit of money can purchase a whole, half or quarter chicken meal starting at $6.50. Otherwise, Pollo Azado features chicken or cheese enchiladas, tacos, and menudo.
Student meals are available and are only $3.99. You can get two tacos, two enchiladas, or one of each. This also includes a drink. Simply present your CMU I.D. They also have a two-dollar taco special.
When I walked into Pollo Azado, I went to the register to order my meal. A friendly girl took my order and told me to help myself to the beverage cooler and a refrigerator with spicy salsa, enchilada sauce, pickled onions, super-spicy sauce for people tougher than me, and fresh lime, all at no additional cost.
I ordered the enchilada meal, which includes beans and rice. I also had my favorite Mexican rice and cinnamon drink: horchata. I loaded up on salsa, lime and pickled onions, sat at a table and the friendly cashier brought me my meal after just a few minutes.
My food was not served on any fancy platters, but simply disposable Styrofoam trays and plastic silverware. Despite the informal presentation, my enchiladas were delicious. They were smothered with a tasty red sauce, with a roasted green onion, brown beans, and rice. Pickled onions and salsa added extra flavor. The chicken was very flavorful and seasoned perfectly.
I would recommend Pollo Azado to anyone looking for delicious Mexican food. If you’re in a hurry or don’t have much money, this place will surely satisfy your hunger.