For those seeking a truly authentic Mexican flavor and experience, El Sabor de Puebla (“The Taste of Puebla”) on Williamson Street delivers. Having lived in Arizona for six years and having also spent time traveling in Mexico, I admit that I am a bit of a snob when it comes to authentic Mexican food. El Sabor de Puebla is the first restaurant I have tried in Madison that satisfies my taste for spicy, flavorful Mexican food.

Located in a converted house, El Sabor de Puebla also delivers charm in a bright, welcoming atmosphere. Colorful murals featuring scenes of the Mexican state of Puebla adorn the walls. The plates have ceramic patterns traditional to Puebla. I was pleased to feel like I was returning to the streets of Puebla that I visited last December in all aspects of design and flavor.

Other things to love about El Sabor de Puebla include the reasonable prices, the mole sauces, and the fact that the owner sources directly from Los Jalapenos Farm in Verona.  With most meals costing around $10, a diner will receive a full plate that includes rice and beans. Chips and delicious salsa come complementary.

To have a truly authentic experience, try any of the dishes that include mole sauces. Mole is a rich, chocolatey, peppery sauce traditionally prepared in Puebla. The mole poblano (mole sauce on a chicken leg) is the most authentic dish on the menu. I had the chile rellenos, which features the poblano pepper famous to the Puebla region, and found it to be delicious and filling. My dining partner ate the mole poblano, which he found very comparable to the same dish he ate in Mexico.

One of the most interesting things to note about El Sabor de Puebla is that owner Reyna Gonzalez’s brother, Juan Gonzalez, is the founder of Los Jalapenos organic CSA farm. This means that Gonzalez sources fresh, local, organic produce for many of the dishes.

Speaking of vegetables, as a vegetarian, I was pleased to find that there were many vegetarian options available at El Sabor de Puebla, and they were well-noted on the menu. This is not often true of Mexican restaurants.

The service was good when we were there, although other reviewers note that it can be slow during busy times. Our waitress was friendly, knowledgeable, and prompt with her service.

To Plan Your Visit

El Sabor de Puebla
1133 Williamson St., Madison, WI 53703
Phone: (608) 422-5264
Hours: Open daily 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.