New Opening: A Taste Of Mexico In Mount Eden

There is nothing we love more than seeing new faces in Auckland’s restaurant scene, and recently we have been spoiled for choice with all the new eateries popping up.

Mount Eden welcomes De Nada to their ranks, and it is safe to say our expectations have been exceeded. The Mexican eatery and tequila bar have everything we need for a good night out.

The interior is breathtaking with funky décor, quirky tile artwork and cosy seating, creating the perfect atmosphere and tone for a marvellous evening out. You will find De Nada next door to Scarlett Slimms and Lucky. It is hard to miss!

While De Nada has an enviable selection of tequila, it is the cuisine that has stolen the hearts of locals. The Mexican fare showcases authentic and bold flavours with a contemporary twist. The menu is perfect for those who want to share dishes, and there are larger dishes for those who want their own.

The platitos (small plates) are delectable morsels that offer an introduction to Mexican cuisine. The corn chips with salsa and guacamole are the ultimate snack dish; you will not be able to stop until the plate is clean.

Other nibbles include spiced chicken chimichangas, stuffed bread and mollette. The latter pairs focaccia with fried chicken, cheddar, pepper coulis, pickled chilli slaw and smoked paprika yoghurt.

The comidas (large plates) can be eaten solo or shared with the table; the dishes range from quesadillas to enchiladas and carne de vaca. Try something new with the fresh catch of squid tentacles, also known as pescado en achiote is a flavour-packed dish with an abundance of herbs.

There is also a section dedicated to the beauty that is nachos; with three flavours available, you will be spoiled for choice. The veggie nachos include the classic ingredients from jalapenos to sour cream, guacamole to beans and cilantro. The other two flavours are the braised chorizo nachos and the tuna sashimi, which have quickly accumulated a cult-like following. It is fresh, tangy and mouth-wateringly delicious with sweet soy, pico de gallo, chipotle sour cream and guacamole.

The star of the show has to be the tacos; there are a variety of fillings including the scotch fillet birria, pork rib birria, chicken thighs, tequila prawn cocktails, and the halloumi and kale. The scotch fillet birria taco is succulent and explosive with a coffee coat, caramelised onions, bell peppers and sharp cheese. And the halloumi and kale are fresh, crisp and creamy; this is sure to be a favourite amongst vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

For our fellow diners with an insatiable sweet tooth, the dessert options are creative, exciting and unforgettable. The churros are a classic dish that never ceases to delight, paired with Rum flaming chocolate, caramel and cinnamon; this beauty hits the spot every time, and the best part is that it arrives at the table on fire!

The sweet potato crumble is like nothing we have tried before with a surprisingly delicious black bean ice cream, pecans and nutmeg. There is also the arroz con leche which is a hot Mexican rice pudding and the trez leches. The latter is a 3-layer milk-soaked sponge cake with passionfruit, mascarpone crème, lime and fresh fruit.

Tequila is the nectar of the Gods, and the golden goodness comes in many forms at De Nada. We are talking margaritas. With fancy flavours and even fancier glassware, De Nada sure knows its way around a marg. A top contender for the best margarita has to be the lychee and raspberry, although, with winter at our heels, the chilli marg is irresistible.

De Nada means you’re welcome in Spanish, and after you have sampled the cuisine, you will understand the sentiment. You can find De Nada at 2/476 Mount Eden Road, Mount Eden. Open for lunch, dinner, and drinks Tuesday to Saturday.

Image Source: De Nada.