New Kid on the Guac

The opening of Barrio in Tremont sparked a staff debate: Which local Latin joint has the best guacamole? We all had our personal favorites. Bold statements were made. Lines were drawn. And, like all good food debates around here, it ended with a conference room blind taste-test of a trio of traditional takes. What did we learn along the way? There's more than one way to smash an avocado.

if you like ... CITRUS

Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar ($4.95)

With hunks of tomato, onion and the added surprise of cucumber, it's the chunkiest of the bunch. It's the twist of lemon and lime, however, that give this dip a fresh bite.

28601 Chagrin Blvd.,
Woodmere, 216-896-9020,
paladarkitchen.com

if you like ... ONIONS

Barrio ($6)

Not for the timid, this offering loads up on the red onions and cilantro for an overpowering dose of flavor. But if you like a taste that's in your face, this guac is for you.

806 Literary Road,
Cleveland, 216-999-7714

if you like ... AVOCADOS

Momocho ($8)

Simplicity at it's best. This dip scores points for letting the main ingredient be the star. The creamy, almost whipped texture isn't weighed down by the finely chopped garlic, onions and cilantro.

1835 Fulton Road,
Cleveland, 216-694-2122,
momocho.com