Herald Rating: 4/5
Address: 5/92 Marua Rd, Ellerslie
We came here because a friend wanted to practise his rusty Spanish on the lovely people who run this cafe/shop that stocks imported Mexican food and artefacts. It opens its doors on Thursdays and Fridays from 11am-3pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm to serve authentic Mexican dishes.
Parking was easy enough on the suburban street.
We walked in and immediately thought this cosy little space dedicated to all things Mexican is basic but colourful and comfortable, and very welcoming. We love the religious and Day of the Dead artefacts for sale dotted throughout.
The most unusual thing on the menu was either the chicken or vegetarian mole with chili chocolate sauce ($12) or the nogado - chillies stuffed with beef, nuts and dried fruit with a walnut sauce ($17).
We ordered the prawn tostada ($9) with a tasty avocado and chilli sauce and fat, fresh prawns, and the vegetarian enfrijolada ($12) - tortilla, corn, beans and cheese - which was a sloppy but delicious dish, with a smoky flavour.
The service was extremely friendly without being overbearing.
The coffee was - here's the rub - there is no coffee. Instead we opted for a fresh mango juice.
We recommend if you come here you take home one of the collectable and reasonably priced Day of the Dead artworks, Frida Kahlo memorabilia or other Mexican trinkets or jewellery, and some of the imported delicacies like dark chocolate chilli skulls or hot sauces.
Overall we thought this is not your average brunch place but the food is good and the slightly haphazard experience definitely memorable. If it was on K Rd you'd never get in the door. Recommended.
