Posted on

Shredded BBQ Duck Confit Chimichanga from Mezcal Tequila Cantina

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

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

Posted on

Chicken Curry Pie from Corner Grille

Chicken Curry Pie from Corner Grille on Pleasant Street in Worcester, MA

Chicken Curry Pie from Corner Grille on Pleasant Street in Worcester, MA

As their website says “Not your average pizza pie,” Corner Grille makes pizza’s that you won’t find at your average pizza shop. While I love pizza I always have to be careful due to a dairy intolerance. But at Corner Grille those worries go away as their selection of pizzas (or as they call them “pies”) allow me to enjoy the night out with my friends. While it appears to be a smaller eat in place I was amazed to see how many people they could fit comfortably. While the menu also includes wraps, salads, mac and cheese, and soups it’s the pizza that draws the crowds in. There are over 15 plus pizza variations or you could make your own. In the end I decided to go with the Chicken Curry Pie. This pie had a mild red curry sauce as the base layer versus the traditional red tomato sauce. Topping the curry sauce were red onions, green peppers, chicken, small amount of cheese, pineapple and diced jalapeños . Overall, I enjoyed the pie as it was a little spicey but not overwhelming and a little sweet – bringing a good balance in taste. What makes the pies unique is the very thin crust allowing you to eat more than a few pieces without feeling full. I did have the opportunity to try two other pies – Chicken Caesar Salad Pie and Harvest Moon Pie. Yes you heard correctly, chicken caesar pie and it tastes just like you imagine a caesar salad would taste! I admit my favorite for this time of the year was the Harvest Moon Pie – how can you go wrong with brown sugar, roasted butternut squashm caramelized onions, sausage, toasted pumpkin seeds and a brown butter drizzle. Can you say double yum! All three pies even tasted great the next day bother heated and cold!

It’s BYOB so be sure to bring your choice of beverage to enjoy with the yummy pizza. I know I will be going back soon to try another pizza!