""Novies"" as we locals like to call it is hands down the best authentically Mexican restaurant in the Sacramento area. I' ve tried many. The carnitas are excellent and more than ample portions. The chile verde is phenomenal and consistent. I've personally stumbled back into the kitchen when the restaurant was closed down between lunch and dinner and found one of the owners hand stripping and cleaning the meat for the chile verde and chile colorado. It explains why I have yet to come across a piece of fat, gristle or mystery meat in any meal from El Novillero. Service is always fast, thorough and courteous. Waiters do NOT run down a lengthy list of specials while trying to impress you with their newly found culinary wisdom. \r
However, your water glass will always be full, a fresh basket of chips with salsa on your table, and subtle suggestions of what they believe are the best menu items ( anything with chile verde or chile colorado). The portions are large but not ridiculous. Whatever you cannot finish makes leftovers worth stabbing a fork in the hand that tries to beat you to them. And nothing, nothing here is going to be legal on your diet. This food is rich, it is authentic, it is comforting. If you're visiting, it's definitely worth the taxi ride or rental car with GPS.
Pros: Food Food Food!
Cons: No place to take a nap while you make room for seconds
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