Spencer Williams, Contributor
Located on Hope Road, somewhat opposite the turn-off for Hillcrest Avenue, this very casual Mexican joint serves up filling and flavourful fare.
Happenstance steered me to find the restaurant, which rests back from the road, behind their car park. I was looking for someone's house, and was drawn to turn in to this colourful site that certainly didn't seem like a place of business. I saw a few plastic chairs and tables outside, shaded by a large umbrella, and I thought perhaps a small alfresco dinner was about to take place. I turned my car around, and driving out I noticed the painted sign on the wall to my left: Chilito's.
Realising that I had not just imposed on someone's private home, and with pangs of hunger 'inna mi belly', I continued on up Hope Road and navigated my way back to investigate the possibility of getting a meal!
SMILING FACES
I was greeted by a couple of smiling faces, who beckoned me in to look at their menu. Taken aback, and frankly, a little put off by the buffet of food in front of me, I nearly walked out. However there was a familiar aroma in the air, one which reminded me of home-cooked food, and I didn't have the heart to turn my back on these two cheerful women who seemed so appreciative of me being there. I must admit that I am not one for buffet lines, and I like to feel that everything I order has especially been prepared for me!
I was ushered to a table on said veranda, and offered two margaritas for the price of one. Aha, happy hour was a feature, only it should be called 'happy two hours', as from five o'clock in the afternoon until seven on weekdays, one can get two for one cocktails, and buy local beers for $100 each. Bargain! As I waited for my drink(s), I nosed around in between browsing the menu. Right behind me was a bohemian-styled living room, in which one might be able to spend a long evening with friends, sipping on sangria and nibbling on nachos.
After ordering an obscene amount of food, the potently good margaritas arrived. I seriously recommend that you ditch the after-work traffic (why be miserable?) and stop off here for an hour or so.
Why not tuck into potato flautas, chicken quesadillas, beef burritos, fajita burrito bowls, ackee enchiladas, or a deliciously fragrant salsa and chunky guacamole with chips? The main course servings are substantial, and although they are not always piping hot, it's forgivable because it tastes so great! Even the rice, which is laced with cilantro, contains a bit of magic.
SERVED ON PLASTIC
Everything is served in or on plastic, so if you're looking for fine dining with china and crystal, this is not the venue for you. Be prepared for the dessert, whether it's their creamy flan or vanilla and chocolate marble cake, to even come in a clear plastic box! However, don't let this deter you. There is something about the ambience, a little hook if you like, which has drawn me back again and again.
Chilito's, 64 Hope Road, Kingston 6
Tel. 978-0537
Opening hours:
Monday-Saturday 12:00 p.m.- 10:00 p.m., Sunday: 5:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m.
Lunch specials available: Noon-3:00 p.m.
Happy Hour: Weekdays 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
Look to spend: $120-$300 on a starter, $500-$800 on a main course, $80 on a small side dish, $250 on a good size margarita (or two if it's happy hour!)<
