I finally made it to National Mechanics and it was worth the multiple attempts! It had been a long week, but I was looking forward to hanging out with a few friends I hadn't seen in awhile.

We ordered the Frito Taco Extravaganza, because with a name like that, how couldn't you be curious? It's a nostalgic treat for me, bringing me back to watching my brother's little league games, where they served this dish right in the Frito's bag, covered with chili and cheese, a spoon stuck in the middle. National Mechanics cuts open the bag and loads the Frito's up with a chili loaded with beans. We all loved it.

Since I was dining with meat eaters, we also ordered some wings. For me, wings are the kind of food which takes more effort than it's actually worth, but of course I tried them. I enjoyed the sauce, it wasn't overly sweet.

The burger was a nice size, and served with some truly delicious steak fries. For me, a steak fry must be crispy to stand up to the thick cut of the potato. These were great.

Fish and Chips was served with the same delicious steak fries. The fish was good, but after four years in Wisconsin, I'm a fried fish snob, nothing can compare.

Lauren and I decided dessert was necessary, so we ordered a three layer chocolate ganache cake and, upon suggestion of our waitress, the bread pudding. This bread pudding was really good. When it was gone, I kinda wanted to order another. But I didn't. Instead, I went over to say hi to Marisa, who I recognized from her blog, Apartment 2024, as well as Fork You. She immediately introduced me to another blogger I read, Philafoodie, who asked me if I was a vegetarian, to which I answered "no", and he immediately handed me a shot of bacon vodka. Yes, bacon vodka.

I went back to my table to tell my friends about the bacon vodka, and they were so intrigued we ordered a round. Here's a picture of us just before we took the plunge. (Ha ha! My friend Marissa looks scared) That's right, I followed up one shot of bacon vodka with another. Overall, it was bad. It smelled stronger of bacon than it tasted. But I still contend it's best application would be in a Bloody Mary.

Go to National Mechanics. The food is good, the decor is unique, even in the bathroom!

National Mechanics
22 South 3rd Street
Philadelphia PA 19106
215.701.4883