Chef-owner of Mama Tigre, Renu Prakash, says that she played with spices like other kids take on Play-Doh. Now, the former owner of Tequila Grande in Oakton is playing with spices for an internationally influenced menu of Mexican favorites. “When an artist paints a woman, it doesn’t matter what country she’s from. It’s art. I want people to appreciate spices and enjoy what it brings to you,” she says.
Here’s what we recommend eating at Mama Tigre to taste a variety of Prakash’s multicultural cuisine. // 10443 White Granite Drive, Oakton
-
Tigre Tikka Wings
Tired of sticky-sweet wings? This juicy, earthy-tasting chicken is tossed in a chile-laden tikka masala sauce.
-
Panela con Poblano
Prakash’s Mexican interpretation of Indian paneer dishes features cubes of cheese in butter-chicken sauce, topped with crunchy pumpkin seeds.
-
Mole Enchiladas
Prakash’s take on chocolaty mole Poblano features spices you won’t find anywhere else, including turmeric.
-
Tres Leches
This sinful cake features a homemade sponge suffused with three kinds of milk, but ask for chocolate and caramel sauces to make it even more indulgent.
This post originally appeared in our October 2020 print issue. For more dining coverage across the region, subscribe to our weekly Food newsletter.