There is a plethora of restaurants along Hidalgo offering something for everyone. Our favourites just so happen to be the ones owned by individual owners and restauranteurs. El Mexicano is a fine example of this. The evening we dined, there were couples and families and groups of friends all enjoying Isla’s warm hospitality.

Ever since I started visiting the islands of Quintana Roo I have loved the aqua-marine colour of the sea and El Mexicano embraces these colours from the shutters of the storefront, the metal chairs and even their dinner plates.

Their specialty is spicy margaritas, so we selected the mango version to declare that the spiced rim was savoury but not overly spicy. In fact, we both decided that our first tastes of mango margaritas might be our favourites of the trip. The yellow flower garnish increased our delight.

For starters we enjoyed silky tuna tostadas. We were cautioned of their spiciness but had a comfortable degree of heat. I especially appreciated a hint of sesame oil that I always enjoy with raw tuna. They were beautifully presented on shredded red cabbage and a lovely blue plate reminiscent of plates I recall seeing in Portugal.

Our shared main called Los Molcajetes, came in a sizzling hot volcanic lava bowl. Five head on shrimp, grilled panela cheese and chorizo sausage topped roasted tomato sauce, beans and guacamole. Blue tortillas accompanied.  The elements were delicious speared with your fork or rolled into the tortillas.

The service was warm & efficient and the place was hopping! My guess is that the extensive menu with everything from burgers, macaroni & lobster, fish & chips, to oysters, tacos and tostados, can satisfy a family with youngsters, spring breakers or a retired couple.

Insider Tip: We sampled the Mixto Molcajetes on a previous visit including chicken, shrimp and skirt steak. Something for everyone in a single bowl!

Kath’s quote: “A bowl is a circle of unity, where all differences melt away and only connection remains.” Author Unknown. (But what the world needs now!)

Love never fails.

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