Go for the Margaritas

This is Mrs. Ref and let me start with a disclaimer:  I have experienced the Guadalajara Restaurant before--but I've only been to the Lee's Summit location.  Can't say that this location compares favorably; but there are still some highlights that makes it a worthwhile visit.  First of all, I count my calories pretty close and I often rate food as "worth the calories" or not.  Let me assure you that the margaritas at Guadalajara are worth the calories!  How many drinks make you say "Yum"?  Guaranteed, this one will, so make sure you get a pitcher.
This seems to be an older, probably much more established location.  It feels more like a typical Mexican restaurant, very casual, but the food is not typical KC Tex/Mex fare.  The food served was a little uneven--some quite delicious and some average to below.  We started with several of the quesadillas and the chicken was quite delicious.  Mushroom and squash blossom, not quite as flavorful.  I ordered the Oaxaca Pork which had a tomatillo sauce and side of beans.  The pork was tough and I wasn't impressed with the flavor until I spread the beans on top and the smoky flavor melded so well with the other flavors that I finished off my portion despite my best judgement as the portion was quite generous.  I loved the Mole dish that was layered with flavorful delishiousness on Sarah's plate.
Ultimately, I think you must have great salsa and  crispy chips (preferably served hot) to really call yourself a Mexican Restaurant in Kansas City even if you are authentic!  Guadaljara just can't compete with some of the most common Tex/Mex stations in Kansas City, however.  The chips are very pedestrian and the salsa--despite having fresh ingredients--does not have a complex, firey flavor that rises above most found at the local grocer.  When mixed with the "spicey" sauce you can get if you ask, it achieves an average score.
The service here also failed to achieve the quality of most (certainly not all) of our picks.  But with the tasty Margaritas on hand and fabulous company including California intern,  Portia, I didn't really mind.
Guadalajara scored enough points on my palette for a solid 3 of 5.  (If you're looking for excellent, fresh, authentic Mexican flavors--visit to the Lee's Summit location.  I am certain you will be satisfied!)