CHIMICHANGA - An Old El Paso package with a Sombrero hat

As we saw the corner-shaped ranch at the horizon, we knew the moist air of the desert and the start of the wet season was going to bring us to a halt before we could move on towards the Frontier. Its bright capital letters and large windows enticed us to hurry inside and enjoy the warm colours. As we passed the cacti at the entrance, we were quickly welcomed by the skeleton staff against a background of empty tables and scattered diners. We were offered the largest oval table for the six of us, and the menu kindly placed in front of us. A very quite melody played in the background from some hidden corner of the large, square open space, and a smell of brand new polished wood seemed to invade our nostrils. A couple of red, green and blue sombreros with golden swirls were available for pick-up and they revived our enthusiasm as we wore them proudly in the weak autumn light coming through the large windows.

Pitch of Sangria to share was the drink of choice, and only a few starters were chosen. They all came together rather than letting us drink too much while we wait - a good thing never experienced so far. The nachos had a nice presentation and was a not a messy slob. The jalapeno bullets felt quite too crispy as a bit overcooked or way too crispy but did not overflow with cheese and no jalapeno. Moving onto the mains, the choice hovered over a hybrid of Tex-Mex and Mexican classics like enchiladas, burritos, and chimichangas. Dishes looked cheerful enough although with a halo of "carb" colour which is intrinsic to this type of cuisine. Tortilla, rice and beans, with mean - moderate portion but still filling. Word of advice, however, is to opt for baked rather than fried. Overall the taste was great but something about the texture did not completely infuse a sense of freshness. Food looked pre-packaged or pre-prepared but you did not taste microwave and the guacamole tasted nicer than in other restaurants. No dessert to corroborate these assumptions and we ended it all with one espresso and one Mexican coffee with Kalhua and Tequila.

Chimichanga is very colourful and very themed and very bright, although eerily quite for music. Like all chains, you can feel then single-serving element and very little difference from other places offering the same cuisine. However, it does not make the stereotype look too old or outdated, which was our first worry. It is worth trying it for a fun or celebration dinner, or if you need filling food. Our final feedback echoes our trek to the Frontier, it is one stop to enjoy but we are travelling one way and may not return that often.

Our verdict is as follows:

Quality of Food        3.17
Hygiene                     3.83
Value for Money      3.00
Speed of Service       4.67
Quality of Service    4.33
Ambience & décor   3.67

Chimichanga gets an overall rating of 73.5%