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Shredded BBQ Duck Confit Chimichanga from Mezcal Tequila Cantina on Major Taylor Boulevard in Worcester, MA

When entering Mezcal’s new location on Major Taylor Blvd. one would be amazed at just how expansive the new location is. With wide open areas for tables, a partition that separates the regular diners from the bar-goers and ample space to intermingle between the two, it is head and shoulders above the previous location. After not going to Mezcal for a couple of years, I was excited to become reacquainted with their menu. It ranged from their signature guacamole to basic Mexican classics like burritos and fish tacos…but I wanted something different; something I hadn’t tried at any other Mexican restaurant I had ever been to. I decided to get the shredded BBQ duck confit chimichanga. As the description on the menu read, it was rolled and deep-fried flour tortillas filled with mushrooms, onions, jalapeños and jack cheese, topped with salsa verde, chipotle aioli and crema, served with Mexican rice. It was one of the more moderately priced items on the menu but I was willing to splurge on something decadent. As the meal came out, I knew that I was going to be in for a treat. The chimichanga came out fried to golden brown perfection, covered in the bright and vibrant salsa verde, chipotle aioli and crema covering the top of the crispy tortilla. The duck filling was rich and succulent…everything you would want from a game bird. The dark, rich meat was able to cut through the tanginess of the sauces and the texture of the fried tortilla for a taste that is unique to this dish in particular. As big at the chimichanga was, I had no problem polishing it off because of how delicious it truly was. The side of rice, despite being very flavorful could have been slightly bigger, as I was looking for a palate cleanser in between bites of rich duck. I am excited to go back to try Mezcal again after such a good meal. I am very happy with their new location. Given their new size, more eclectic menu and quality of food, I am wishing them great success.

Fish Tacos from Mezcal Tequila Cantina on Major Taylor Boulevard

Having been to Mezcal Tequila Cantina a few times, I was anxious to try the new incarnation so when our Foodies group decided to go there, I was very much looking forward to the evening. First off, the new space is amazing. Located street level under the parking garage on Major Taylor Blvd across from the DCU Center, Mezcal is huge spanning most of the entire length of the building. There are lots of distinct seating areas and a large bar area that opens to the kitchen. And, as with everything that Niche Hospitality does, there is an attention to detail and decor that does not go unnoticed.

The expanded menu had many of the things you would expect to see at a Mexican restaurant such as quesadillas, tacos and burritos, but there is so much more and I knew they all would be done in a way only Mezcal can do. My dining partner and I started with the guacamole sampler, three choices of guacamole served with a plentiful amount of chips. Our three choices, all handmade and fresh, were the traditional, mediterranean and the special of the night, a bacon guacamole. All three were outstanding but the mediterranean – filled with sun-dried tomatoes, olives and feta cheese, stood out with a flavor and texture that was a great way to start the meal. Next came my meal, the Fish Tacos served with warm, soft corn tortillas, lettuce, jack cheese and side of authentic Mexican rice. The fish was tender and light, perfectly seasoned with chili and topped with a habanero slaw that provided enough heat, while not overpowering the delicate white fish. The crunchy texture of the lettuce and the slaw was a great contrast to the soft tortilla and the creamy jack cheese.

My entire dining experience was outstanding, the food, the atmosphere and service at Mezcal was top notch and I can’t wait to go back and try some of the new offerings.