Mexicali - Dunbar special

Mexicali

Location: 4424 Dunbar street, Vancouver (near the intersection of w.41st)
Phone: 604.731.6517
Price: Lunch for 2: $5-7, dinner for 2: $18-25

I often have strong cravings for Mexican food, but what I crave is the fresh lime, chipotle, and guacamole. Like Thai food, I haven't been able to find MY place in Vancouver where I can call my own. Mexicali just happens to be in my neighbourhood. In an area where relatively inexpensive dining is unheard of, this little murial ridden mexican spot stands alone. I like to know that the individuals cooking my food have something in common with the cuisine. I may be judging here, but I have a feeling the owners/ cook are about as Mexican as I am Chinese. Non the less, the food seems to resemble the Mexican kind...after all, what do I really know about Mexican cuisine. Anyway, this place suits us just fine...for now. The lunch specials (which you can order anytime of the day) are incredibly inexpensive. (I always want to say cheap, but it makes it sound cheap). The specials are enough of a meal to fill my boyfriend up, and come with all the fixings. I'm not sure where tater tots ever became Mexican, but in this little joint they are everywhere. I complain, but they do taste quite good dipped in their homemade salsa and sour cream. The "lunch special" is completed with a slushy limonata. This is SO good. They squeeze a fresh lime wedge into a slushy lime drink. It always hits the spot. If you are dining with 3 or more people, opt for a pitcher of limonata as it is a better value than ordering it individually. I have tried a few different dishes here. What seems to be the most harmless is the Rondondo roll-up ($6.00), which is available in beef or chicken. The two times that I have had this I have choosen chicken. They are generous with the chicken, and they use lean, big pieces. I am use to having a mash-up of chicken 'bits' in most inexpensive meals, but Mexicali is generous and healthy with their chicken. The rondondo roll-up is VERY simple, so if you have picky eaters this is a great option. A grilled tortillia is filled with lettuce, chopped tomatoes, (minimal) grated cheese, chicken or beef, and a side of sour cream and salsa.