Viva DF in Morrisville, NC

Viva DF stands for "Distrito Federal" and shares the same owner as Totopos on Kildaire Farm Road in Cary. Viva DF has undergone a complete transformation from La Rancherita that used to occupy the same space located in the strip mall by Harris Teeter on Davis Drive. The Dia de Los Muertos skulls adorn the walls, a large and colorful mural of Mexico City takes up the back wall and then the illuminated bar displaying all of the liquor drinks is the focal point as you enter the restaurant. 

The tables are sleek and the decor makes this a very trendy and more upscale dining environment. I was able to make a reservation using Opentable and we checked in with the friendly hostess. We were offered seating inside or outside and we opted for inside. 

Our server Felipe was so gracious, explained all of the ingredients and dishes with the proper pronunciation, and came back many times to check on us. He was very charismatic, outgoing and enthusiastic as he described the meaning behind the decor and story of Mexico City and the food. The menu was very simple with tacos, enchiladas, salads and a few other Mexican entrees. There were not too many choices and I like how it was simple yet very tasty and full of flavor. I loved the enchilada with the green sauce and the side of rice and black beans that came in small metal bowls. 

We also had the delicious guacamole and salsa as a starter and the tomatoes in the salsa were fresh from the vine and so large and juicy that you needed more than one chip to get a bite.

Viva DF is known for its tequila and they offer about 80 types of tequila. For this reason, you have to try there special margarita known as the Mercado Margarita. During my first visit, it was made with fresh cucumber juice, grapefruit and tequila. 

During my subsequent visit, I also tried the 901 Corazon made with Justin Timberlake's tequila.

Then there is the Agave Azul with coconut and that was just as fabulous and tropical. 

 I also learned that Tuesday is Tamale Tuesday with specials on the corn husk delicacies. The manager also came around to ask how we heard of Viva DF and also thanked us for our patronage. The water is refilled from fancy bottles and not just from plastic pitchers with ice. Even my to-go container was classy and Felipe wrote the name of the dish on it and a smiley face. My experience and meal at Viva DF was outstanding and I can't wait to come back and try out more items on their menu. Gracias!