Bites Nearby: Casa Orozco in Dublin

has been a fixture in Dublin since 1984. Now, after a remodel and expansion, this restaurant is bigger and better. It even features a nice patio for outdoor seating. I got very excited when I saw that some outdoor tables had a little fire pit in the middle. How fun is that if we can keep the Dublin winds down to a dull roar?  

At Casa Orozco you know you are going to have a great meal from the time you sit down and are served your fresh chips and homemade salsa. The salsa is so delicious — it is a good thing that it's sold to go at only $3.29 a pint. 

Casa Orozco has a few starters to choose from, including tostaditas de ceviche for $6.99 — homemade and tasty. It also has some salads with Mexican flair and even a traditional Caesar for those who are a a little less daring. Salads run $8.50 to $8.99 for dinner portions and a little less for lunch size. You also may want to try a cup or bowl of Caldo de Pollo soup for $3.99/$5.99 respectively. 

The restaurant has quite a selection of dishes. Some of the specialties include Barbacoa, which is a stewed beef dish and runs $15.50 for dinner and a dollar less for the lunch portion. Another favorite is the carnitas, which is tender hand-pulled pork that comes with guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo. I find the pork to have a wonderful flavor and a great portion size for dinner. You will end up having to take some home. This dish runs $15.99 for dinner.

You can find grilled items like a nice chicken breast for $14.99 or a New York steak for $19.99. It also has shrimp dishes as well as tilapia and fish tacos if you prefer items from the sea. When it comes to burritos, there are many to choose from, beginning at $7.79. The restaurant also serves breakfast all day, including huevos rancheros for $10.99.   

For people who want to hand-tailor their meals, you can find two- and three-item combinations with anything from tacos to chile rellenos and more. You also can pick your protein: al pastor, carnitas, chile verde, ground or shredded beef, chile colorado, carne asada, chicken, chorizo and egg or even a veggie mix. The combinations run $11.99-$12.99 for lunch and $14.99-$16.99 for dinner. A smaller one-item plate runs $8.99-9.49 for lunch and $11.50-$12.49 for dinner. 

You are welcome to order items ala carte, which is what I do with my enchiladas suizas — two enchiladas stuffed full of shredded chicken and covered in a mild red sauce. They are served with a huge dollop of sour cream and guacamole for $7.99. Why, my Sangria costs almost as much. 

We mustn't forget about the cocktails at Casa Orozco. It has a nice bar area with big-screen TV's in case you don't want to miss a big game.

Sangria is $6 a glass and margaritas start at $7.25. The eatery also features tropical drinks along with well and call drinks and beers in the bottle and on tap. Ask to see the wine and special tequila list. 

I find that I am always too stuffed to partake of dessert, but you can try deep-fried ice cream or mango cheesecake, among other choices.

There is a kids menu that has traditional Mexican entrees plus items such as cheese pizza and chicken corndog bites. The child plates costs $5.99. 

Casa Orozco has a second location in Livermore and both restaurants feature takeout and catering. Visit its website to learn about daily specials. If you're going with a large party, especially on the weekends, you're encouraged to call ahead and make reservations. This popular place definitely fills up quickly.    

Casa Orozco, 7995 Amador Valley Blvd., Dublin 925-828-5464. Mon. - Thurs., Sun. 11 a.m. - 9 p.m., Fri. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.