Announcer: Arcoiris Mexican Restaurant looks like someone took a yellow highlighter to the building. Frankly, the boys were skeptical to give this place a try because from the outside, there isn't much appealing about the joint.  The parking lot has weeds; there are too many makeshift signs in the window, and gads, the color.  But, dining reviews require a certain level of bravery and the boys were happy they took the risk.

Jason: The place is immaculate inside.  I was expecting ripped vinyl chairs, broken Formica and sheens of grease on the walls.  Not at all.  The tables are nice, the floor clean, and the couple running the place quite friendly.

Jake: I was pleasantly surprised to see that beer and wine is available here.  A cold beer went perfectly with the chips and salsa while I checked out the menu.

Jason: The salsa had that nice Mexican smoke flavor - robust and savory with lots of ingredients like cilantro and onion.  

Jake: If you are a burrito fan, then you are in for a treat here as they are a huge - eight inches and stuffed to the seams.  The chicken wet combo burrito combines marinated meat with beans, rice and cheese on the inside - with even more cheese on the outside - then completely drenched in your choice of red or green sauce.  The enormous size made this a two-mealer for me, which isn't a complaint as I was able to enjoy it twice.

Jason: The quesadilla also comes with marinated chicken meat with nice broth flavor and moist.  The cheese also had a fresh flavor - real cheddar and jack I am certain.

Jake: For just a few dollars more, the house specials are a full meal with rice and beans.  On my second visit, I ordered the carne asada and once again was not disappointed.  The steak was marinated rather than only seasoned after the fact, which made for both a flavorful and tender steak.  Served with rice, beans, and some of the best hand-made tortillas I've ever had; they are delivered fresh daily.

Jason: The street tacos are what you'd expect - small corn tortilla stuffed with freshly chopped cilantro and onion - simple yet meaty.  I liked the steak, but the fish on these tacos was just as good - mild.

Jake: The tortilla soup is a must-try at Arcoiris.  It comes automatically with any house special, and fortunately is available as a side dish in both small and large sizes.  This is not the standard diner tortilla soup; it is packed with rich broth, tortilla chips (not strips), fresh tomatoes, cilantro, and even avocado, with just the right amount of spice.

Jason: Arcoiris defies expectations. And maybe considering we were the only ones dining at lunch, has a public relations problem.  They should repaint, freshen the parking lot, get rid of the handmade signs, and start reaping the patronage they deserve.  

Arcoiris Mexican Restaurant, 9124 Veterans Dr., Lakewood, 253.582.1818