Guzman y Gomez

Recently I kept hearing whispers about "GYG". At first it I though it was some strange foodie cult. So when a friend suggested we visit Guzman Y Gomez aka GYG I was keen. The Newtown store is not a place for diamonds and tiaras. It’s casual and laid back like the suburb. That's not to say it is not funky and modern. Actually it's the first time I have felt cool since 1972. I was however, suspicious that the slick design may have disguised an updated Taco Bell or another quickie franchise, so I remained a skeptic till the first bite. When I spoke to the Mexican girl behind the counter I felt my "fast food'' prejudice begin to waft away; with the smell of slow roasted pork chipotle being pulled from the oven. Her recommendation of a Chicken Guerrero Burrito with Pico de Gallo Salsa was inspired. Having an open kitchen allowed me to see that these chefs were the real deal. No pimple faced fifteen year olds here. My friend had Prawns in Yellow Mole and DF Steak and Onions Quesadillas. We shared a side of fresh Guacamole with homemade Tortillas Chips. This food is made with subtle flavours, tender meats and excellent marinades. It’s surprisingly healthy and very fresh. We enjoyed it so much we had the Mexican flan for dessert; which is similar to a spectacular cream caramel. The whole meal cost us $15.00 each. The flan is $2.80 each and worth buying just for dinner parties. You could not make it better than they did! My only piece of advice is that the owners are purists so do not go expecting sour cream and hard tacos as they won’t sell it. Judging from the amount of Mexicans eating there they must be right. If you want sour cream get extra guacamole in your burrito it’s healthier and $2.00 extra. GYG provides an inexpensive Mexican meal made as well as what you would make at home without the mess. Also it is an Australian owned company with no intention to dilute what works with franchising. Gracias!! 14/04/2008