Kique’s Kitchen, located in Watkinsville, is a new addition to the rich culture of Athens-Oconee cuisine. Serving authentic Mexican food, Kique’s offers a variety of dishes including tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, and wings.
Aside from the typical dishes you’d find at any old Mexican-American restaurant in Athens, Kique’s is known for a unique dish that sets them apart from the rest: a type of slow-cooked beef called Birria. The owners originally cooked and sold this to friends and family, and upon realizing how popular it was, created the restaurant which to my knowledge has never had a slow day of business since their opening last June.
The Birria is phenomenal. The best way to describe it is as a spicy Mexican pot roast. It’s typically served as a stew with quesadillas or tacos on the side for dipping. Birria is strongly flavored with intense notes of chilis, so I only recommend this if you have a decent spice tolerance.
Most recently, I ordered simple chicken tacos. If you’re like me and love the authentic corn-tortilla-with-cilantro-onion-and-lime style, then these tacos are for you. And if you’re someone who gets technical about your dips, I, as a qualified cheese-dip gal, am here to tell you that this one is pretty superior.
Kique’s is a welcomed addition to the Athens-Oconee food scene. The ambiance is enhanced through bright themes with notes of authentic decorations, featuring colorful paintings and portraits of Frida Kahla covering the walls. The space isn’t large, but you have the choice of outside patio seating or indoor booths.
I would definitely recommend giving Kique’s a try – just be prepared to wait a bit as it’s always busy. Pro tip: That’s a good sign!
