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All 325 Christchurch Restaurants »

The Mexican Cafe

110 Lichfield Street, Christchurch 8001, New Zealand
(03) 377 5515
Ranked #82 of 325 restaurants in Christchurch
3.5 of 5 stars 18 Reviews
Cuisines: Mexican
Most recent review
- 8 Feb 2012
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18 reviews from our community

61% Recommend
    3
    8
    4
    3
    0
Rating summary
    Food
    Service
    Value
    Atmosphere
Date Rating
New Zealand
Senior Contributor
22 reviews 22 reviews
12 helpful votes 12 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 February 2012

DID NOT visit in March 2011. Couldn't pick an earlier date. Sadly the Mexican Cafe in Christchurch is another loss due to the earthquake. Not the best Mexican I've ever had, compared to some great eateries in California and the southwest, but one of the better ones in Christchurch and able to meet my need for Mexican food. More

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Christchurch, New Zealand
Senior Contributor
41 reviews 41 reviews
13 helpful votes 13 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 1 February 2012

this is the best mexican food in Christchurch. Not sure if it's still open after the earthquake? More

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Wellington, New Zealand
Senior Contributor
27 reviews 27 reviews
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 22 January 2011

Hidden at the top of the stairs near Sol Square is the best little mexican restaurant in Christchurch. I love the decor, the staff are friendly and helpful. They can alter many of their meals to be vegan so this is a great place to come if you have a mix of vege's and meat eaters, everyone is catered for.... More

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1 review
2 of 5 stars Reviewed 4 May 2010

Very disappointing food.... The worst we've tried in New Zealand.... It lacks any taste....Too greasy.... No salt... Overcooked beans....tasteless chips.... A big no for someone who is looking for a good meal worth the price... More

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Maui, Hawaii
Senior Contributor
38 reviews 38 reviews
18 helpful votes 18 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 20 April 2010

Ok, seriously, I am amazed at the uber harsh critiques from all the Californian's and people claiming they live near Mexico and know what "real" Mexican food tastes like. Newsflash: this is nowhere near Mexico!! Give these people a break! I, too, am from the Southwest US originally, and am a proverbial Mexican Food junkie. It's my cuisine of choice.... More

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UK
Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 14 January 2010

The Mexican cafe provided great portions of really good Mexican food. In addition, there was live music which added to a fantastic atmosphere all night! More

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lilmissB_NZ
2 reviews
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
2 of 5 stars Reviewed 8 March 2009

Food takes far too long to produce, and is of a consistantly poor quality. Flavours just aren't there, the bland refried beans dominate. More

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Waterloo, ON
Senior Reviewer
6 reviews 6 reviews
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 28 December 2008

Interesting building - walked up a flight of wood stairs to a large open space with a high raftered ceiling. The interior was 'warm' and had the feel of an old cantina. The food was good though I was hoping for some great pico de gallo which wasn't available or at least didn't come with anything we ordered. The service... More

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christchurch
2 reviews
2 of 5 stars Reviewed 16 December 2008

Sorry to say, but my Fish Tacos were the most spectacularly horrible meal I have ever had! Imagine a melange of tasteless, greasy, corn tortillas and breaded 'fish' completely devoid of spice or taste....topped with cabbage. sigh. Atmos quite nice though....maybe I will go there again to drink, but never again to eat! More

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A TripAdvisor reviewer on Facebook
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 31 July 2008

Consistent, delicious, huge portions and grand drinks! Quick, efficient service. My fav for mexican. More

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