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October 24, 2021

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Home » Sunday » City Scene

Irresistible flair embodying best of Mexico

By Patsy Yang | 00:05 UTC+8 October 24, 2021 | Print Edition

A bit of Mexico in the heart of Shanghai, Mezcalito is a neighborhood bistro that welcomes everyone to experience the bold flavors and inspiring aromas that honor Mexican heritage, complemented by a great array of Mezcal and cocktails.

Mezcalito is situated in the same spot as the former French rotisserie Dodu on Changshu Road. After four years of operations, owner Hugo de Mondragon decided to go in a new direction, driven by his passion and love for Mexico.

Before turning Dodu into a Mexican bistro, the Frenchman opened a small Mezcal-focused bar called Espiritu last year. He is proud of his knowledge and passion for artisanal agave spirits, and with the launch of Mezcalito, more diners will have chance to discover the irresistible flair that embodies the land, traditions and people of Mexico. The two-level, cheery bistro gives off a relaxed mood ideal for friendly get togethers.

The food menu combines the simplicity of authentic recipes with fresh ingredients and a touch of creativity. You have plenty of options for your entree, from Ceviche barramundi and blue mussels in tamarind sauce to grilled beef marrow served with rice tortillas. Each plate has a distinct taste due to the herbs, spices and ingredients specific to Mexican food combined in unique ways.

I loved the Mexican way of eating bone marrow: roasted bones served with tortillas and condiments for making tacos. I scooped the marrow, still bubbling from the oven, into warm tortillas and topped it with fresh onions and lime juice. The acid from the lime and flavor from the pineapple red onion salsa brought the mildly seasoned marrow to life.

A trip to Mezcalito wouldn’t be complete without their tacos — otherwise you are missing out some serious enjoyment. Pork al pastor — the king of tacos — is only available from Thursday to Saturday. The grilled marinated pork roaster on a spit is thinly sliced off in front of you, enhanced with chopped onions, pineapple and chilis. Another special is Birria Lamb, which is a corn tortilla filled with the slow-cooked lamb served with its stock. For lamb lovers, it is a must.

Mexico has the world’s most edible insects, and the country has a long-standing tradition of eating insects as a delicacy. Here you can find fried maguey worms served with mezcal, or fried ants as a savory pop to the tuna tostada (crisp corn tortillas topped with marinated tuna, avocado and salsa macha).

Opening hours: 11am-2am
Tel: 1832-1748-274
Address: 81 Changshu Rd
Average price: 120 yuan (US$18.77) for dinner; 68 yuan for lunch

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