Nuevo y aprobado: Xolo, Christchurch

Xolo, a small but vibrant Mexican restaurant located in central Christchurch, has introduced a range of new dishes following a recent culinary expedition to Mexico by its chef owners, Carlos Rodriguez and Karla Villa Delgado. The restaurant, part of The Welder complex, opened just over a year ago and continues to gain attention for its fresh approach to traditional Mexican cuisine. Rodriguez, originally from Chile, and Villa Delgado, hailing from Mexico, co-own Xolo and bring a blend of cultural influences to their cooking. The name Xolo, derived from the Náhuatl language, holds significance tied to the Aztec god of fire and the underworld. Rodriguez explained that the name reflects their commitment to cooking with fire, engaging with customers, and offering a unique perspective on Mexican food in Christchurch. Their menu features a mix of familiar staples such as tacos and guacamole alongside more region-specific dishes inspired by areas like Oaxaca and Jalisco, Villa Delgado's native state. Situated within The Welder, a hub for dining and nightlife in central Christchurch, Xolo shares its space with several other notable eateries and bars. Its proximity to Imōto, a popular spot for post-dinner drinks, makes it a convenient destination for those looking to enjoy a complete meal and drink experience. The latest additions to Xolo's menu were inspired by Rodriguez and Villa Delgado’s recent trip to Mexico, during which they explored various aspects of local food culture. They documented their journey on Instagram, visiting mezcal producers, meeting a fourth-generation mushroom forager in the Oaxaca mountains, and collaborating with local chefs on pop-up events. These experiences have directly influenced the new dishes now available at the restaurant. The atmosphere at Xolo is described as relaxed, lively, and welcoming. The open kitchen allows guests to see the preparation of meals, and the couple often interact with diners, checking in on their experience. The intimate setting encourages conversation among patrons, creating a sense of community. Staff members are noted for their friendliness and knowledge, offering thoughtful recommendations and even providing a complimentary plate of cornbread to start the meal. For those looking to sample the new offerings, the menu includes a variety of options. On a particularly rainy evening, the reviewer found the pozole blanco, a pork broth, particularly appealing due to its rich flavors and texture, enhanced by elements like chewy hominy and nixtamalized corn. The tlayuda, featuring spicy beef strips on freshly made tortillas, stood out for its freshness and quality. The frijoles puercos, a dip combining pinto beans with pork crackling and cheese, proved to be a satisfying appetizer. Among the tacos, the cactus taco offered a unique taste with its tender and tangy profile, while the newly added chicken gringa showcased smoky flavors from charcoal-grilled chicken paired with grilled pineapple. Xolo also boasts an impressive cocktail menu, including the smoky naranja raicilla, a blood orange tequila cocktail that was both refreshing and flavorful. The establishment offers a selection of local and Mexican beers, along with over a dozen mezcals and corresponding cocktails. A takeaway menu provides access to salsas and tortillas, allowing customers to continue enjoying the restaurant's flavors beyond their visit.