Frita Batidos

A new location on the list of places I'll miss!

I tried Frita Batidos for the first time in March when a friend suggested we all go there after hearing another friend's master's recital. (She did an excellent job, by the way! Go Elim!) I owe that friend so much for introducing me to this amazing restaurant:

Okay, maybe it's hard to read the sign.

They serve Cuban-inspired food that is absolutely wonderful. Fritas are Cuban burgers - they have chorizo, beef, black bean for the vegetarians, etc - served on soft rolls with fries on top. I first tried the beef frita and devoured it in a matter of minutes. I've also had their pulled pork sandwich, served with a really sweet slaw on top. The twice-fried plantains are also delicious... I could go on and on. Since that first dinner there, I have been back at least once almost every weekend.

The second part of the restaurant's name is from the special drinks they serve, batidos. They're a type of milkshake that is thick and creamy. Once they get their liquor license, you can add a splash of rum, too, if you are so inclined. I tried a few flavors, but then fell in love with the Caramel Rum Cream batido. Oh man... it just might be one of the most delicious drinks I have ever tasted.

I drank half of it in the ten minute walk back to my house to take this picture.
Look - it comes with a little umbrella!

The casual atmosphere is also great - rather than having a bunch of individual tables, there are several long picnic tables and benches. It's fun to be able to chat with new people next to you, or squeeze all your friends into one.

I cannot tell you how much I will miss this place, especially since I only discovered it in the last couple months. If you stay in Ann Arbor, it is definitely worth a try. It's over on West Washington, just a block off Main Street. Try the batidos. You will love them.