For Mexican lovers in the city of Mumbai, Poco Loco is well-known. You see, the Southern American cuisine isn't seen as widely as others like Asian or Indian food so finding a trusty Mexican restaurant that consistently serves up their finger-licking best is a rarity. My previous experiences at the Khar outlet of Poco Loco have always been pleasant so when I was invited to the launch of their new South Bombay outlet in Mumbai's Hughes Road, the excitement was palpable that they were finally bringing their signature Mexican sizzle to this side of town. We dived into their courses, experimented with their new range of cocktails, explored the snazzy set-up and came back to tell you how it fared.
Poco Loco at Hughes Road, Mumbai
The Ambiance
Poco Loco's Hughes Road outlet is a compact space that features warm tones and rustic accents throughout. Emerging from a foliage lined ceiling is a series of cane chandeliers which pairs with the cane chairs and stools placed at the stucco-walled bar. Upstairs there are more pops of colour over the seating and walls with a private dining room for parties located to the left of the staircase.
Cocktails at Poco Loco, Mumbai
The Bar
The bar menu is an experimental dream. While the usual wines, margaritas and negronis are very much present, it's the molecular and in-house cocktails that shine. While the cookie-infused smokey whisky cocktail called 'Reaction' was a delight, 'Coco Loco' really made an impact. The creamy flavour of coconut with a mix of liquors garnished with a chocolate wafer was a hit. In fact, it was such a sweet treat that it would go down smoothly as a boozy post-dinner treat as well.
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Food at Poco Loco, Mumbai
The Food
The menu is vast with colour-coded sections not only for non-vegetarians and vegetarians but also for Jain preferences. The usual suspects like tacos, burritos and chimichangas are present but more 'Mexicanised' varieties of pizzas, soups, pastas and burgers are also amongst the offerings. We started off with the Gambas Al Ajillo, a well-marinated serving of prawns in a fiery sauce. While the menu did mention two fire signs, it brought a slow heat which definitely made us pace ourselves while tucking into the tender prawns.
Food at Poco Loco, Mumbai
The cooking of the prawns stood out for us, which made us order the Chimichuri Shrimp Pizza. The thin crust generously featured the green sauce tucked under a blanket of cheese which was dotted with prawns. A unique flavour of pizza I haven't tried before, it was definitely one I'd return for.
Food at Poco Loco, Mumbai
The Double Cheddar Lamb Burger arrived with a serving of fries, sauce and coleslaw. Every bite was not just a filling one but a sizzling one as well.
Food at Poco Loco, Mumbai
Of course, our meal wouldn't be complete without churros, now would it? Piping hot, sugary and crisp served with chocolate sauce, we couldn't think of a better dessert to end the evening.
The Verdict
Poco Loco is set to be an exciting addition to the South Bombay casual dining scene. While experimental cocktails are sure to be the highlight of your night out, the food veers on the spicy side but is well cooked and extremely satiating. You're definitely going home from here with a belly full.
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