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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.

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Jerk-seared Salmon Filet from Mezcal Tequila Cantina

Jerk-seared Salmon Filet from Mezcal Tequila Cantina on Major Taylor Boulevard in Worcester, MA

Jerk-seared Salmon Filet from Mezcal Tequila Cantina on Major Taylor Boulevard in Worcester, MA

I was excited to hear Foodies was heading to the new location of Mezcal Tequila Cantina. When I entered I could not help but be brought back to my fond memories of Sh-Boom’s, seems so long ago. Good times back then…

We were seated in what I believe would be the function room towards the back; I think that used to be the techno club. HA! The new location is very spacious, décor is fitting, staff was fantastic, and looks as though the windows can open, so in the summer that will be nice.

When I do get to Mezcal (Leominster location is great as well) I always order the same thing, fish tacos, so I really wanted to try something new this time. Upon a recommendation from friend, he mentioned the “nontraditional meals” were quite good and always enjoyable. I liked the selection on the menu and decided to order the JERK-SEARED SALMON FILET – Roasted vegetables, Caribbean butternut bisque, tropical spices, chili pineapple glaze, fried plantains / 22., and of course (since I had a snow day the next day) a couple glasses of sangria.

The salmon was cooked perfectly, seasoned well, and the Caribbean butternut bisque was a unique and the perfect blend of spice and sweet. I really enjoyed the flavors. Of course, I tried some of the fried plantain and roasted vegetables, which were all very good; however, I was more interested in eating the entire piece of salmon.

I did want to order some guacamole, as they do have the best, but I was trying to be good and saving room for dessert (to share). For dessert, I ordered the CRÈME BRULÉ vanilla bean and orange essence and a fellow foodie’s friend ordered the bread pudding. I will preface this by saying that I never order dessert, but thought why not (snow day tomorrow, right). They were both very good, the bread pudding was a little too firm for me but the flavors were there.

I now have an alternative to my fish tacos, the salmon, but next time guacamole is necessary!