Road grub

Great food always makes a road trip more bearable. Knowing the location of a secret gem, especially in those little out-of-the way spots, can make a destination worth the journey.

Sometimes, an incredible meal can be a destination of its own. How far would you go for some tasty eats?

Here are a few (relatively) unknown spots worth pulling off the highway for. Better yet, hop in the car just because it is spring break and you’re looking for a small adventure.

Halfway between Portland and Seattle is a family-owned-and-operated Mexican restaurant, serving some of the best and most consistent authentic cuisine you’ll find in either of the two states. La Tarasca is run by the Ayala family, and chances are Mercedes Ayala herself will greet you at the front door and steer you to a table. Brightly painted in festive colors, and covered in traditional Mexican d퀌�cor, the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming.

Close your eyes and the flavors here will take you far from Centralia. Mercedes’ mother cooks everything daily, just as she did back in her native Michoacan, Mexico. Every item on the menu is a hit, combining old world techniques with rich, slowly developed flavors. The menu features carnitas, tender pork cooked in its own juices, spicy chile Colorado, and tacos adobada, juicy marinated pork in a chile sauce.

Don’t miss the mole, tangy and full with chocolate and chiles, and make sure to mop up the superb sauce with chunks of tender chicken. The corn tortillas are made by hand, and are moist, tender and habit-forming.

To find La Tarasca, travel east on Harrison Street off of I-5, and it will be around the bend on the left as the street turns into Main Street. Plan your road trip to Seattle so you can stop for lunch here, or make it the end of the road. McMenamin’s Olympic Hotel is also in Centralia, with great rates. Amtrak also stops in Centralia on its way to Seattle.

When the Oregon Coast is in order, head to Newport’s harbor for some of the freshest seafood available. Part retail store, part restaurant, Local Ocean has been around for almost two years, in a bright, open space overlooking the docks and fishing boats.

Grab some of this food to go to eat in your hotel room or dine in, while watching the cooks work their magic in the open kitchen.

The fish sold here is wild and caught locally, keeping an eye out for the environment, so you can feel good about eating seafood.

Try the tuna tacos, salmon burger, or better yet, spring for a whole crab. Meltingly tender, the plentiful meat makes for a messy, but marvelous, meal. Prices are reasonable and portions are generous.

Seafood on the coast tends to be fried in most restaurants, hideously overcooked and drying out its delicate texture. You’ll find salads, entrees and starters that highlight the sweet, light flavors of each different fish.

If all you have to spare is a few hours, get in the car or bus and head way out to the wilds of far-flung Southeast Portland. Whatever route you take, the 7 �_ miles out from downtown will feel like a million, as there is no quick route to Don Cameron. Another Mexican joint, it specializes in casual seafood that will remind you of your last vacation down south.

Nothing elegant here, just shrimp that will rock your world. Cut in half length-wise and seared with its head and legs still on, the butter and spices meld beautifully with the meat-you’ll be licking your fingers. Choose different flavorings like garlic or spicy, and get a large oval platter with six of the wee beasties together with rice, beans and corn tortillas.

Also noteworthy are the tostadas, a heap of lime-cured, ceviche-style shrimp along with cucumbers and red onions. So simple and clean, the tart, crisp flavors taste like a beach vacation. The tostadas also come with cooked shrimp and crab, both phenomenal.

Small and relaxed with only about eight tables, this place can be loud if the jukebox is going. The clientele is mostly Hispanic men or families, taking a break from the working routine. Prices for seafood are reasonable, and the rest of the extensive menu is a bargain. Huge burritos are under $4, for example.

La Tarasca1001 Main St.Centralia, WA360-736-7756

Open for lunch and dinner every day but Tuesday

Local Ocean213 S.E. Bay Blvd.Newport, OR541-574-7959

Open daily for lunch and dinner

Don Cameron14130 S.E. Division St.Portland, OR503-760-4018

Open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily