Picante Serves Consistantly Great Authentic Mexican Cuisine
Anguilla guests are generally in search of tranquility and relaxation. Long walks and naps on the beach, splashing about in the beautiful tropical water and enjoying beachside Caribbean related dishes. Not many expect to come to this tropical oasis and find authentic Mexican cuisine. However, if this is something that interested a visitor, they need look no further than the beautifully crafted Picante. This astounding vibrant Carribean Taqueria is draped in Mexican culture. From the colorfully festive building and decorations, to the deliciously flavorful dishes served, Picante is a Mexican hideaway dropped in a tropical utopia.
Owner Zoe Tise-Hodge resided on the island for years, working as a personal chef. Her daughter and son in law, Chloe and Therion Loizos would often visit and came to fall in love with the island and its tranquil surroundings. As time went on, the trio decided to work together and open a little piece of heaven on the island. The Lozios packed up their belongings and moved to Anguilla leaving behind 2 successful restaurants in sunny Northern California. Together, the crew opened Picante in 2004, to rave reviews. Located on the West End, this vivacious restaurant only offers dinner, between mid-August and November 1st. During the off-season, they are closed Mondays/Tuesdays and for the on-season, Mondays only.
The Picante restaurant was considered a foreign concept. There were barely any restaurants that boasted of another culture while being located on an island so rich in their own food history and traditions, creating an exciting arena for this rare treat. Just as enigmatic in decoration as in fare, Picante comes alive as it bursts with a visual kaleidoscope in hue, unmistakable upon sight at best. A gorgeously decorated walkway leads guests to an open space, resounding with Mexican themed decorations to add to the ambiance. The seating is perfect for families or groups of travelers as each table is elongated and holds at least 6 people, with bench-like seats. Pillows are available if requested, adding to the fun! Guests are greeted by a very friendly and diverse staff. Immediately upon being seated, visitors are treated to a starter snack of warm tortillas and homemade salsa. The hard-shell tacos filled with either chicken, beef strips or steak and served with a side of rice are among the dishes that come highly recommended. For those more excited by seafood, Picante offers the fish salad composed of fresh greens and Baja fish as well as the highly acclaimed seafood enchilada. Picante also offers an aromatic delight in their world class guacamole! All meals are served on astonishingly large Aztecan designed plates that accentuate the experience, perfect for sharing!
Visitors may find their eyes wandering over to the bar area, as they should, where a menu showcasing the daily food specials hangs, enticing those interested to try amazing off-menu items. Many trade in their familiar rum punches for delicious margaritas, among favorites are the sparkling, mango, and the passion fruit. These are perfect for washing down the robust flavors of a true Tex-Mex meal. Each margarita bursts of an authentic experience almost taking you to a Mexican resort for your taste buds. It doesn’t matter if you order your margarita on the rocks or frozen, it is definitely a must have while visiting. Picante is always busy, filled with families, couples, locals, and visitors alike. It is a true dining experience in every sense of the word. The owners can be seen mingling with the guest, serving food, and even bussing tables. On several occasions our guests have had food allergies and Zoe was spectacular in working with us, making sure everything was safe and delicious!
Picante has been rated one of the top 7 restaurants in Anguilla. It certainly stands out with its theme, cuisine and atmosphere. Being one of few beachside Taqueria’s serves for a fun and credible experience inside of another experience. Their website offers 3-D tours and the venue is available for private events as well as romantic getaways! Make sure to make a reservation during the busy season! This will be an experience you won’t soon regret or forget!
Picante — http://www.picante-restaurant-anguilla.com
West End Village 2640, Anguilla
Call +1 264-498-1616
Email— picantebwi@gmail.com