No Way Jose's adds some Mexican spice to Sherwood Park

Sherwood Park's first authentic Mexican restaurant is adding some much-needed spice to the neighbourhood's food scene, according to Edmonton AM's food reviewer Twyla Campbell.

No Way Jose's Taqueria, whichopened its doors lastDecember, is the work of Lorne & Rubi Rudkin, a local couple with roots in Mazatlan.

Some members of the Rudkin clancome from a long line of taqueros (taco makers), and the family promises to serve up a taste of bona fide Mexican street food made from carefully perfected family recipes.

Campbell says the restaurant's passion for food can be found in almost every bite.

"I was pleasantly surprised," said Campbell during a Friday morning interview.

It's no secret, tacos are the 'deal-maker' or 'deal-breaker' for any lover of Mexican food, and Campbell says the meat-topped tortillas she tried at No Way Jose'spassed the test, with spicy marinades and mouth-watering flavours.

"I was really impressed," said Campbell, who notes that she was truly bowled over by the refried beans.

"Surprisingly, it wasone of my favourite dishes of all of them," said Campbell. "They were just simple, with lots of flavour."

Despite the delectable offerings, Campbell thought the menu was lacking a certain punch.

"What we had was really good but I think they can up their game," said Campbell."They're playing it safe."

By using non-authentic ingredients like marbled cheese and blastortilla chips, Campbell saidmany of the dishes although delicious lostsome of their gusto.

"I don't think Sherwood Park is known for being on the culinary edge, so I can see why they would want to play it safe, but I wish they wouldn't.If it's good authentic food, people will eat it,"said Campbell.

"I will definitely go back, but I'd love to see them kick it up a notch."

You can hear Campbell's reviews onEdmonton AMevery second Friday. You can also see more of her reviews on her blog,Weird Wild and Wonderful, and can follow her on Twitter at@wanderwoman10.