Literally, he's one of the nicest guys I've met, and also one of the most talented. "Food is a passion," said Chef Jorge Contreras. "It's something I think about constantly." Which is just one of the reasons why his new menu rocks.

We all know we're not supposed to judge a book by its cover, so shouldn't the same go for judging restaurants by their awnings? I think so because I found out that the ordinary pine green one that says Mad Rose Tavern in plain letters actually houses one of Clarendon's most comfortable spots. Since first discovering this place about a year ago, the menu has undergone a total transformation thanks to a super cool, new chef named Jorge Contreras. Literally, he's one of the nicest guys I've met, and also one of the most talented. "Food is a passion," he said. "It's something I think about constantly." Which is just one of the reasons why his new menu rocks. The other, of course, is his adherence to quality. "We only use fresh ingredients, most of which come from local farms," he said. Well, this explains why everything he prepares is so dang delicious, like the pork carnitas tacos. Chock full of fresh-cooked meat, onions, pico de gallo and topped with a sliver of juicy lime, this is the kind of food that makes me forget there might be a game on the TVs strewn around the main dining area. And the main courses, like the roasted chicken entree? Whether you dine it indoors, in the back lounge area or out on the awesome patio, forget about making dinner conversation because it's rude to talk with your mouth full, and trust, your taste buds won't let you take a break. It's that good.

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Menu Highlights:
Carnitas Tacos, $9
Smoked Ham + Pineapple Flatbread Pizza, $12
Roasted Chicken, $16
Seared Sea Scallops, $23
Mad Rose Burger, $13

Deal Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 4 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Saturday - Sunday, 10 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.