VALLARTA PEOPLE
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| La Fonda | | by
The PVTribune Team - February 16, 2003 |  Like
so many places in Vallarta, one has no idea what beauty the building's bright
white walls hide inside. Such is the case with The Fonda Vallarta.
This
establishment has been around for a number of years, but only very recently was
it taken over by the entrepreneurial young couple of Luis Trujillo and his lovely
wife. And what a change they've made! Last week, a group of
us from the Tribune attended the inauguration of The Fonda's Mole Festival. At
first, we were directed to the building's roof-top terrace where we were introduced
to the house wines (delicious) that were graciously served with a breathtaking
sunset …and a live Mariachi band to boot.  Afterwards,
we all adjourned to the lower level for a unique evening of concentrated induction
into the art of mole preparation according to age-old traditions. In between the
terrace and the lower level normally used for private parties and functions, is
the restaurant itself. It is a sight to behold, one to which black-and-white photographs
cannot do justice, something one has to see for oneself in order to fully appreciate
it.
Luis' mother, Doña Aldegunda, comes from the Valle
del Bravo area of Mexico where she has been preparing moles of all different types,
by hand, from scratch, for functions involving up to 400 guests. The lady was
there, showing us all how these rich sauces and broths are made. Everyone, Mexican
and foreigners alike, was fascinated as they watched her grind the ingredients
in the ancient way, using a huge pestle on a mortar made of stone: seeds and nuts,
dozens of different chilies both fresh and dried, fruit, chocolate, etc.  At
the other end of the hall, another lady was desperately trying to supply enough
fresh hand-made tortillas to supply the demand from all the guests who wanted
more to enjoy with the many different fabulous moles displayed in huge clay bowls
all around the room.
On another occasion, we will surely have
to return to La Fonda to give you a more detailed report on the regular menu offered
in the restaurant. In the meantime, do drop in. You are sure to spend a wonderful
dinner and a most special evening, no matter what you order. Archives
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