The menue at La Mexica packs punch, write Anna Whyte
I took my flatmate on a romantic date to La Mexica. She had already been and raved about it, so I wanted to see what the fuss was about.
The menu: The large range of starters included tacos, jalapeno poppers and patatas fritas (Mexican-style fried potatoes). My flatmate Jenna and I shared an array so we could try a bit of everything.
She said the beef taco was one of the best she had ever had. I had the pork taco, which is a mix of Achiote pork, coriander and pineapple salsa. I'm a big fan of pineapple and the combination was amazing. Jenna had the prawn taco, which came with guacamole, coriander, corn and lime. By the look on her face and the time it took for her to devour it, I think it must have been quite good.
We decided on the Mexican ceviche under the chef's recommendation. I hadn't looked at what this was before we ordered and was surprised when a plate of raw fish came out.
Any misgivings flew out the window when I tasted it. The fish was cured in lime and jalapeno juice and came with mexican slaw, chipotle mayo, beetroot puree, sesame and shallots. A combination that definitely worked. We shared the calamari, deep fried and dusted in chilli, which was good but outshone by the ceviche.
I was hoping I would have enough room for the Mexican sliders or a burrito, but unfortunately my eyes were bigger than my stomach. I scanned the dessert menu for next time, and the Layered Chili Chocolate Cake with home-made chocolate chilli ganache and coconut vanilla sorbet stood out. The Banana Chimichanga is also on my to do list - deep fried banana wrapped in a tortilla, with chocolate caramel, or coconut vanilla sorbet and pistachio crunch.
Drinks: Seeing as we were both driving and it was just midday, we opted for coffees, both perfectly made. Margaritas and sangrias, as well as extensive beer and wine lists, are offered.
The buzz: Across the road from the waterfront, La Mexica is in an ideal spot with a great view. The quaint tequila room is perfect for functions or large groups, and the spread of tables outside means you should be able to find a place on a warm Tauranga evening.
The whole place is splashed in colour, including the plates. The set-up is perfect and I even sat next to a little olive tree in the corner.
A lot of produce is sourced locally, the fish is fresh, and the owners even swap home-grown chillies for coffee. It has a relaxed, homely feel, with attentive staff and happy customers.
Value for money: The meals are incredibly filling. Jenna and I usually pride ourselves on being able to eat a fair amount, but the decent-sized dishes beat us. Starters range from $9 to $18 and mains from $20 for the El Grande Mexican Burger to $38 for the Mixed Grill Fajitas. Desserts are from $9 to $18.
The verdict: I'm already planning to go again, but will make sure not to eat beforehand. The relaxed atmosphere, lovely staff and delicious Mexican food makes for a great dining experience.
the details La Mexica Address: 109 The Strand, Tauranga Phone: 07 928-0833.