You know. There’s something magical about that first bite into a perfectly crispy Mexican flauta, the crunch giving way to flavorful, tender filling. This beloved Mexican street food has become a restaurant favorite for good reason, combining simple ingredients into an irresistible handheld delight. 

As we explore what makes these rolled and fried tortilla treasures unique, prepare yourself for a culinary journey that might just leave your taste buds saying, “Taco who? I’m team flauta now!”.

What Exactly Is a Flauta?

Mexican flautas (meaning “flutes” in Spanish) are corn tortillas rolled tightly around a savory filling, then deep-fried until golden and crispy. Their cylindrical shape and the way they resemble a small flute give these charming treats their musical name. 

While they might look similar to taquitos, traditional flautas are typically larger and often longer and thinner (truly resembling their namesake instrument).

Savoring Mexican Tradition

Flautas have deep roots in Mexican culinary history, particularly in central and northern Mexico. What began as a practical way to use leftover meat and tortillas has evolved into a beloved dish found everywhere, from family celebrations to high-end restaurants.

At Zócalo, we honor this tradition while adding our own creative touch. 

The Next Level: Zócalo’s Signature Flautas

Each of our flautas begins with a tender corn tortilla wrapped around slow-cooked pulled chicken that’s been marinated in a blend of traditional spices. 

The filled tortillas are then fried to golden perfection to result in a mouthwatering dish that’s crispy on the outside while maintaining that juicy, flavorful chicken inside.

What makes our flautas stand out is the combination of toppings. Each plate arrives with the crispy flautas drizzled with cool Mexican crema and sprinkled with crumbled queso fresco that adds a delightful salty tang. The vibrant house-made salsa verde brings a zesty, herbaceous kick that cuts through the richness, while pickled red onions add a pop of color and the perfect bit of acidity and crunch.

Perfect Pairings for Your Flautas

At Zócalo, you’ll find some ideal companions to your flauta experience. Let’s explore several beverages that complement our Mexican flautas wonderfully:

• Our signature Zócalo Margarita, crafted with Tequila Blanco, Triple Sec, agave nectar, and fresh lime juice. It creates a refreshing contrast to the crispy, savory flautas. 
• For something with a smoky twist, try the Mezcal Mule made with 400 Conejos Mezcal, Chinola passionfruit liquor, agave, lime, and ginger beer. Its complex flavors stand up fantastically to the rich pulled chicken filling.
• The Paloma, featuring Dulce Vida grapefruit tequila with grapefruit, lime, agave, and grapefruit soda, offers a citrusy counterpoint that cuts through the crispy richness of the dish.
• For non-alcoholic options, our selection of Seasonal Aguas Frescas (particularly the Horchata with its cinnamon-infused rice milk sweetness or the refreshing Mango) provides traditionally authentic pairings. 
• Another great non-alcoholic option is The Cucumber & Mint Mocktail, made with fresh cucumber juice, mint, lime, agave, and a touch of Tajín, offers a cooling contrast with just the right amount of zing.

Beyond Tacos: Why Mexican Flautas Should Be Your Next Favorite

As you may know, our restaurant’s name refers to the main plaza in the heart of Mexico City, a gathering place for community and celebration. It’s this spirit of togetherness that infuses every aspect of the dining experience, including our flautas.

Beyond the quality ingredients and preparation, Mexican flautas are special because of the way they transport you, each bite offers a small journey directly to the streets of Mexico.

So, remember that there’s much more than the usual tacos or burritos, there’s also a crispy, flavorful adventure waiting for you with the mighty Mexican flautas at Zócalo!