Review of Desi's Taco Lounge in Oscoda, Michigan

What do you do if you're driving down scenic River Road in beautiful northern Michigan, and suddenly you get a hankering for a taco? You stop in at Desi's Taco Lounge, in beautiful Oscoda, Michigan. I know, the intro sounds cheesy, but trust me, Desi's has THE best Mexican food north of Mexico.

Desi's is an unassuming stop on the road between the Tawases and Oscoda, situated in the woods just beyond the Foote Dam, on the beautiful Au Sable river. The first thing I ever noticed about the place is that, nine times out of ten, it's packed. Considering that Desi's is smack in the middle of the woods, it seemed like an impressive feat. But when you walk through those doors, you'll know why Desi's Taco Lounge is the place to be. License plates, vintage photographs, and general All-American kitsch line the walls. There's a picture of The Honeymooners and a poster advertising a Led Zeppelin concert above my favorite table. It's an intimate space, a long, low building with dimmed lights. Everywhere you look there is something interesting to read, a catchy slogan of yesteryear, or an ironic vanity plate from someone's '57 Chevy. It is instantly a comfortable atmosphere.

So you sit down at a table and pick up a menu. They warn you on the cover that portions are BIG, and they're not lying. But the food is delicious, and it's a blessing to get to bring home leftovers, just so you can savor the authentic flavors again. Their tacos are crisp, juicy, overflowing with ingredients. Their chips and salsa are housemade, as are their rice and beans, from family recipes. There is a huge variety of items on the menu, from classic Mexican favorites, to good old American burgers and sandwiches. You'll find something for every palate at Desi's. And the drinks are pretty good too. I once had a waitress there tell me she had been down to the REAL Margaritaville, and said that Margaritas there couldn't hold a candle to Desi's own. And it's easy to see why.

Desi's is a family owned operation, and there is real love and devotion put into everything they do. Every meal they serve, every drink they mix is made with love. Love of family, love of their beautiful surroundings, and love of service to the customer. Sure, you may have to wait just a smidge longer than you're used to in the city, but trust me, it's a worthwhile wait. I have never known anyone to be dissatisfied with the experience they've had at Desi's Taco Lounge.

So if you're ever in the area, on scenic River Road between the Tawases and Oscoda, and you get the hankering for a taco, a margarita, or just a good time, I highly suggest you stop over at Desi's Taco Lounge. As they say themselves, it's "Nacho typical restaurant."