[abefroman]

I just ate at Mesa Grill and have dined at Frontera Grill a few times. Hands down the better retaurant is Frontera Grill.
#1. Menu selections and authenticity, much better at Frontera
#2. Portion size not huge at Frontera, but satisfing, at Mesa the portions would leave a midget starving.
#3. Desserts, Rick has a lot of authentic unique desserts, I looked at the dessert menu at Mesa and passed on it
#4. Price, Mesa was more expensive, especially considering the small portion size, the $15 ceviche I ordered was a heaping tablespoon at best.

At Mesa I had the 16 spice duck breast, it was great, though there wasn't much of it, and it did come with a tamale.

The ceviche was a Lobster and Octopus, it kinda had a ketchupy taste (like you would use in a cocktail sauce), which I don't care for in a ceviche.

[phatch]

I assume Mesa is in Chicago too?

[abefroman]

Originally Posted by phatch

I assume Mesa is in Chicago too?

Nope, Las Vegas, I am here on vacation.

[phatch]

Ahh, good to know.

[Pete]

I like the orginal Mesa Grill (never been to the one in Vegas nor the Fontera Grill in Vegas), but I agree that Fontera Grill is better. It is definately more "authentic". Mesa seemed more Latin and Southwestern inspired than trying to stay true to a cuisine. My meal there was memorable but not GREAT. Every meal I've had at Fontera (and Topolopompo sp?) has been awesome. Love Rick's food.

[abefroman]

Just to clarify, I was comparing the Chicago Frontera Grill, to the Las Vegas Mesa Grill.