A journalism professor the other day told me, “Write what you know.” So here I am, writing what I know. What I know is that I have discovered a savory secret in Sacramento.

The secret is 524. That's all it is, 524 12th St. This happens to be the address of a very delicious Mexican food restaurant. Some of you may have heard of it. Some of you may have even eaten there. If you have, you know that this spot is truly worth spreading the word about.

From the moment you walk in the door you are welcomed by soothing colors and an inviting environment. It appears to be a secret of Sacramento because every Friday night when I go in to have a slice of 524’s amazing flan (Mexican custard dessert), the crowd is rather small.

Now, even though most evenings appear to be slow, their lunches are another story. They are quite happening actually. I went in there the other day to get one of their famous breakfast burritos and it looked as though many other Sacramentans were indulging in a tasty meal.

Another great thing about 524 is that it is family owned. Whenever you are dealing with the staff, you are actually dealing with a member of the Gomez family. They are attentive, friendly and charming. They provide relaxed, yet excellent service for all.

524 has been in the same family for 38 years. They shut down for a couple years at one point because of a fire. This fire however, did not stop the Gomez family from continuing their family business. They remodeled and opened right back up sometime in the summer of 2007.

During the week if you drop in, you are sure to be served by Jose, the son, who is quite sociable and very nice. I am generally a nighttime guest, and when I go in on Friday nights, I have the pleasure of being served by the Ana Gomez, the mother. She is quite possibly one of the most adorable women I have ever met and is always willing to stop for a quick chat.

All the food is simply delightful; especially the al a carte burritos, chicken and cheese enchiladas, tamales and more. I can certainly vouch for camarones al mojo de ajo as well.

While dinner could be filling enough, dessert at 524 is too good to pass up. I have already mentioned the flan, but what I haven’t mentioned is that I have been searching for the perfect flan my whole life and have finally found it! The father, Miguel, is actually the one who perfects my favorite dessert. They also make a delectable brownie fudge sundae and churro ice cream creation made with four churros topped with dolce de leche ice cream. It is to die for!

If I haven’t already made you readers hungry, I certainly have made myself hungry and am now going to satisfy my craving for my savory secret. See you at 524!