Something to look forward to in 2012: Mercadito's Lunch Special!!!

Of course there are great authentic and informal Mexican taquerias throughout South Florida, but Mercadito is perhaps the best sit-down, chic Mexican restaurant around.  I've been Rosa Mexicano and Cantina Laredo and even the short-lived Tacontento (thank God that place finally shut down!), and from what I've heard of other high-end places (i.e. Dos Caminos), I can safely assume that of all of the upscale Mexican restaurants in South Florida, Mercadito is the best and most authentic.  This international chain mostly specializes in botanas and antojitos, which are little snacks like tostadas, tacos, guacamoles, and ceviches, just to name a few, and their various locations are usually housed in a beautifully-designed spaces and cater to a well-healed crowd of expat Mexican elites, trend-seekers, and sophisticated gourmands.  Their Midtown Miami location is no different.

John and I "discovered" it in 2010 during Miami Spice and were instantly drawn to it by its very generous restaurant month offerings, which enabled diners to sample a good portion of the menu, including a cocktail.  A la carte, Mercadito can put a significant dent in your wallet, especially considering that your meal will consist mostly of "snacks".  However, they do have some pretty stellar deals, like their weekend brunch:  $18 per person for 1 cocktail each and three huge entrees served family-style, like a rich pozole rojo, addictive chilaquiles, and a unique selection of tacos.  They also had a weekday lunch special for $22 that included 1 cocktail per person, 2 types of guacamole, 2 ceviches, 3 types of tacos (1 of each type per person), 1 side dish, and 1 dessert to share.  This is how I introduced my mother (The Momster) to Mercadito, which turned into an instant love affair.  When I checked Mercadito Midtown's lunch menu a few months ago, it seemed as if they had gotten rid of their Veintidos prix fixe lunch.  However, when I checked their website this month, it looks as if it's back in for this upcoming year, which means that 2012 will definitely have its fair share of exquisite gourmet Mexican lunches that will include jicama and mango guacamole, roasted sweet plantains with chipotle cream, and steak tacos topped with crispy leeks, pears, and shaved brussels sprouts.  If you ever have a weekday off during lunch hours, this is a deal not to be missed!

Mercadito Midtown

3252 NE First Avenue
Miami, FL 33137Tel. 786.369.0430