Horchata just might be the flavor of the summer. Starbucks just rolled out a horchata-flavored shaken espresso as part of its summer seasonal menu, and pop star Selena Gomez has announced a limited-edition Oreo inspired by her love of horchata.
For those unfamiliar, horchata is a Latin American beverage, typically made with rice, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon. It’s slightly sweet, creamy, and light enough to keep you cool in hot weather.
If you’re feeling inspired by these new releases and looking to get a taste of a more traditional horchata — not in a cookie or a coffee beverage — here are six NoVA eateries that have the refreshing drink on their menus.
Taqueria Picoso
In Alexandria, diners can find street food–inspired bites at Taqueria Picoso, with fresh tortillas made from Oaxacan corn and spit-roasted al pastor. It has fresh horchata, too, topped with just a sprinkle of cinnamon. 1472 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria
Los Chamacos
Find the creamy drink at this family-style Mexican restaurant in Arlington. It’s one of a selection of aguas frescas served here, so if you feel like branching out, you can sample a tamarind or pineapple beverage instead. The beverages are part of a well-rounded menu with barbacoa, birria, and fajitas. 922 S. Walter Reed Dr., Arlington
Taco Bamba
A bottled, Taco Bamba–branded version of horchata is available at this local chain, so you can pair it with your choice of chef Victor Albisu’s innovative and flavorful creations. Multiple area locations
ABI Azteca
Have your choice of several refrescos to quench your thirst at this Arlington spot. There’s horchata, of course, in addition to tamarind, marañon (also known as the “cashew apple”), cebada (barley), passion fruit, and fruit salad. 3005 Columbia Pk., Arlington
Taco Rock
Another NoVA-based chain offers horchata as the sidekick to its food offerings. Get it to cool the burn from a spicy Choncho taco — a grilled jalapeño filled with spicy chorizo — or to complement your favorite of its dozens of taco options. Multiple area locations
Taqueria Guadalajara
This spot in Winchester is slightly outside of NoVA, but its chic interior and fresh Mexican dishes are worth the drive. Try its traditional tacos or mole Oaxaqueño, and wash it all down with a glass of cinnamon-redolent horchata. 1181 Front Royal Pk., Winchester
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
