When a restaurant refers to itself as "the bay," it had better be serving up some serious seafood. This Mexican eatery in North Center holds true to its fishy claims. While the menu does have popular Mexican staples like grilled skirt steak and poblano peppers, they're not the shining stars here. This isn't the kind of place where you might want to try a tilapia-stuffed tortilla or a refreshing bowl of ceviche. No, these dishes are the reason why you come to La Bahia. If you're still hungry after all that fish, then you can get your carne asada.
Maybe it's because they're complimentary, but perfectly fried tortilla chips are ungodly difficult to find in many amazing Mexican restaurants. La Bahia doesn't fall short in this category. Light, crispy and with just a dash of salt, the chips here make it far too easy to eat an entire basket (or two) before your main course arrives. After you finish noshing your way through the free stuff, order up a cup of spicy tortilla soup ($2.75). The earthy-hued broth is topped with thinly sliced strips of more fried tortillas (this is not a calorie-counting day) and packs just enough spice to keep you on the edge of your seat. Move on to ceviche for the main course. These sea-inspired selections include shrimp, white fish and octopus; try a combination of all three with the ceviche convinado ($9.95).
The space itself is nothing like being under the sea. It's more like sitting in a slowly fading sunset with its marmalade walls and cherry finished tables. The long dining room seats about 100, which can make waiting for a table seem unlikely, but it's a good idea to call ahead on weekends.
Centerstage Reviewer: Stacy Warden
