Arriving five minutes late in the pouring rain is not the way to set up a good night out.
However, I am greeted warmly at the door and firmly recommended a cocktail bigger than my head by the spectacular lads from Moustache Magazine. The dim lighting and background chatter creates a comfortable ambience and I’m already enamored by the Mexican charm of Chilliwow.
We’re introduced to the trio behind this sublime summer revamp and resident chef Dan Powell gives us an overview of what taste bud tingling offerings we have ahead of us, stressing that fresh is in fact, best.
My cocktail arrives, delivered by Silvia who over the course of the evening proves to be possibly the best waitress in the city, if not the country. Looking at the drink I begin to think my eyes perhaps are too big for my stomach, that is until I take a sip; bursting with flavor and an incredible freshness my ‘Mexican Mojito Punch’ is an inspired creation. Sanza Hornitos tequila and Cointreau blended with lemon, pineapple and a house made ginger syrup infused with fresh sage, it’s a clear reminder to us all that Chilliwow is a bar with food and not the other way around.
Treated first to the Abondigos (Mexican meatballs) that are impressively packed with flavor for such a basic food, however they are belittled by their companion dish, the Jalapeno Poppers. A definite highlight of the evening, stuffed with cream cheese and deep-fried they are incredibly enticing, with a biting aftertaste that can be nullified for those not too fond of spice with the coriander mayo. 
Having finished the first cocktail with relish, traditional Sangria seems the perfect choice. It appears even the Sangria has a unique twist with a burst of what is confirmed to be cinnamon, making the drink even more appealing. Paired with their tacos and nachos, it’s basic Mexican presented with flair and its quite clear head chef Dan Powell takes pride in this menu. Presented to us next is what I believe to be the absolute best food of the evening, the chili fries. Next to me, Matt from Moustache utters two words “holy fuckballs”. Frankly, they’re incredible. Topped with chili con carne, cheese and chipotle mayo, it’s absolutely mouth watering, made even better when doused in hot sauce to really pack a flavor punch. Time for another drink (or three) and our trusty waitress Silvia brings the aptly named ‘Watermelon Smash’ mojito with a smile and sassy comment to match. Refreshing and fruity after a heavy evening of savory spice, it compliments the simple, yet always delicious, churros we’re offered as dessert.
Just as I feel I’m slipping into a food induced Mexi-coma we’re all presented with a new Chilliwow original concoction, the ‘Espresso Martini’. Sound familiar? You’ve not tried a martini quite like this before, replacing vodka with Don Julio Reposado tequila, the combination of bitter coffee and the sting of tequila gives the drink a real kick that instantly summons up thoughts of hazy hangovers and hair of the dog. Halfway through these delightful treats, one third of the Arcade Creative genius behind this unexpected success, Holly Gazal joins us for a drink and a chat. Happy and enthusiastic to answer any questions we have, she’s clear that all they want to do is accommodate the customers. “People wanted more food to go with the drinks, so we thought we let’s give them more food”, she says.
Sizzling with summer spirit, Chilliwow’s new menu is delectable. A traditional Mexican menu replaces the faux Mexican that one is used to in a Brisbane restaurant; I cannot recommend it more. Even if it’s just for a quick drink on a Friday night.
