Who needs Mexico, with its drug gangs and swine flus? Next time you’re craving Cancun, just hit the beach here, then head to one of the following authentic spots for tacos and ice-cold cervezas.
Lolita’s South of the Border Cantina
Join boisterous diners at this flip-flop friendly cantina and suck back multiple fresh ’n’ fruity homemade bevvies. Before you get too borracho, line your stomach with a platter of deluxe tacos. Mains, $16 – $22. 1326 Davie St., 604-696-9996.
Las Margaritas
Split a Fiesta Platter (taquitos, quesadillas, guac, etc.) on the patio and watch the chicas stroll by. Or, dive into B.C.’s largest selection of tequila, including premiums like Patrón Añejo and Reserva de la Familia. Mains, $12 – $19. 1999 West 4th Ave., 604-734-7117.
Cobre
Temper signature Tijuana Speedballs (Reposado tequila, Kahlua, Baileys and coffee) at this Gastown hotpost with a selection of tapas that reinvents Mexican favourites. Local albacore tuna ceviche is a standout. Tapas, $12 – $15. 52 Powell St., 604-669-2396.
Zocalo
Is this SoMa or a hipster hangout in Mexico City? After a meal of mouthwatering mole and several organic martinis, do your best salsa to live Latino music. Mains, $8 – $13. 2515 Main St., 604-677-3521.
Me and Julio
Grab a Pink Taco (pink grapefruit, guava nectar, blackberry cluster and silver tequila) at this always-crowded bamboo-thatched bar and head for the patio — or to a communal table, where you can gorge yourself on local seafood paella. Mains, $16 – $22. 2095 Commercial Dr., 604-696-9997.
Image courtesy of smohundro.
