Lowly Mole

My travels often take me up the Merritt Parkway, through Connecticut.  For various reasons, High Ridge Road (Exit 35) in Stamford is a convenient stopover for me.  Olé Molé, a little Mexican place not far from the off-ramp, had been on my radar for some time.  I recently succumbed to my curiosity and gave it a try.

Perhaps I've become a bit jaded by the good Mexican food in New York and the yet better stuff in California.  Or maybe Olé Molé just isn't all that good.  My Comestaccomplice and I tried a couple of dishes that weren't bad, but lacked the allure of a repeat visit.  The relatively high prices further decreased the likelihood of our return.

The flavorless salsa that accompanied the chips seemed to portend what was to come.  The Enchiladas Suizas (red corn tortillas with chicken, vegetables, and cheese, served with salsa verde and mole negro) at $12.95 were bland, but slightly better than the tough, uninspired Pollo Juarez (grilled marinated chicken breast, served with a mole verde) for $13.95.  All platillos come with rice, beans, and flour tortillas.  There's an additional charge of 50¢ for extra ingredients (i.e., rice, beans, lettuce, onion, tortillas, jalapeño, cheese, sour cream, small salsas).

The lack of flavor is surprising, given the high quality of the ingredients, which are obviously fresh, and the individual preparation of each dish made therefrom.

Though slow, the service was pleasant and courteous.  Our requests for salsa replenishments were all accommodated cheerfully.  Unfortunately, the ambiance of the limited dining area has all the appeal of a fast-food establishment.  The outdoor (parking lot) seating holds similar appeal.  Overall, this little place is not all that bad, but doesn't truly Merritt another visit.

Olé Molé

1030 High Ridge Road (near Olga Dr)
Stamford, CT

(203) 461-9962

http://olemole.net/

By bus: 31