Took the parents out over the weekend and brought them to CHIJMES. It has been a long long time since they have been there so I thought it would be nice to enjoy the refurbished CHIJMES atmosphere. Chose El Mero Mero for something different and also given they have gave me a good impression from Whisky Live

The space was previously occupied by Señor Taco, but the transformation now is a more refined Mexican fare not just limited to tacos, burritos and nachos

Perlin Reserve $90

The Grenache/Syrah combination is a little acidic to taste ending with sweet notes towards the end, which is a pretty easy wine to drink

San Remo Prawn Ceviche $25

A combination of prawns, sea urchin, mango, chilli & pico de gallo. Great flavours with a punch. I love the chips which were really fragrant and crispy

Kurobuta Pork ‘Al Pastor’ $18

Marinated pork with house-made corn tortilla, topped with sweet pineapples. It was a simple and well executed dish

Atlantic Grilled Octopus $28

The octopus was really well cooked. The corn cream and black garlic paste added a different flavour to it, with a touch of creaminess and fragrance

Roasted Suckling Pig $34

The suckling pig had a light porky taste to it, with the meat tender and the skin crackling. I love the sweet roasted pineapples that may taste a little artificially too sweet and the banana chips, with the whole dish rounded off with Mexican dry chilli sauce

NZ Ribeye 300g $68

The Angus beef seems more medium than medium rare to me. It was decent but what I love more was the accompanying sauce which was a burst of flavours that goes well with the meat

Red Sangria $9.90

XXL Churros & Mexican Chocolate Sauce $14

The churros are cooked well though the dough may seem a little too thick for some. I prefer my churros slimmer. ha

Tequila Pecan Pie $14

The pecan pie surprises with its unique texture and flavours. The mushy pie may not fit well with some but I enjoyed the sweet-tasting pie with the crunch and fragrant pecan nuts, alongside some cinnamon icecream

El Mero Mero certainly does a twist to traditional Mexican flavours, retaining some of what we are familiar with and the addition of different elements. I think the chillax location makes the dining experience enjoyable and possibly one to consider if you are looking at Mexican cuisine

El Mero Mero

#01-20 Chijmes 

30 Victoria Street, S(187996)