CHILITOS (CHILL-EAT-OS) on Hope Road

JA-MEXICAN food!

What a clever combination!

I have been to Chilitos several times and my view has fluctuated every time I go. I was sold on this idea since the very beginning, because it seemed to be a new option among the scarce selection of fast food places in Kingston. But sometimes, I feel that I am not very attracted to the place itself.

Let me explain...

Chilitos not only did it present itself like a new option... it was a "cool" option. They have created a quasi-lounge ambiance in that old house located on Hope Road that makes me want to see where they can go. Unfortunately, they have not gone further.

This place gives you the option of seating at their verandah or even their at their porch listening to NICE music, which says a lot about their relaxed atmosphere. They also have a room filled with posters of music artists, some sofas, chairs and magazines, which reminds me of a nice bar that I visited once in Paris.

The Parisian bar in question was an eclectic mixture of furniture, music and drinks that was called Le bar sans nom (The Unnamed Bar) and it was characterized for a very laid-back and hip atmosphere. Once, I even saw Sydney Pollack entering that bar and I immediately realized that the place was set to be full of amazing stories.

Chilitos has the laid-back effect place (unintended comparison) and it's full of young people and music. The managers are very nice and the concept is attractive. However, even though I am fascinated with the idea of having a JAMEX (TEXMEX) restaurant and I am in tune with the lounge idea, I feel that Chilitos needs to pay closer attention to some details, such as lighting, tidiness, concept coherence and customer comfort.

We were lacking the variety of TEXMEX cuisine in Kingston and I believe this is a good start.

Nonetheless, go there, try their TACO SALADS, their FLAUTAS, their BURRITOS and their CHIMICHANGAS. If you find yourself spoilt for choice, ask one of the staff members and they'll be delighted to advise you about their options. Go with their FRESH juice options, which is far better than a soda pop.

If you want to take full advantage of the JAMEX experience, try Chilitos on a day where they have a live music group. You will be in awe at the mixture of Texmex food and Jamaican underground ambiance.

So, my dear blog readers... are you up for Jamex tonight? If so, drop by Chilitos and don't forget to let them know that we are expecting MORE!

Keep on eating and demanding good service!