Two New Chilorio's Very Mexican Joints Now Very Open

Photo by Lee Klein

Hopefully Chilorio's fish tacos will look something like these.

​Chilorio's Very Mexican, "a fast-casual fresh Mexican restaurant," has opened not one, but two new South Florida outposts: At 130 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables, and at 8211 South Dixie Highway in South Miami. Both spots offer what Chilorio bills as "dishes made from authentic Mexican recipes, many of which were provided by the owner's mother." The founder is Diego Cortes.

The chain also claims to prepare everything fresh daily, and "features a variety of authentic Mexican dishes, including grilled burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, tacos, tostadas, fajitas, soups, old recipe guacamole, a kids menu and many desserts."  

I have never eaten at a Chilorio's, so at this point can offer no informed opinion as to quality, price point, and so forth. Am I skeptical? Yes, if only because other so-called "fresh" Mexican chain restaurants have been less than impressive. Plus there's something unsettling about this particular boast of authenticity: "The seats are covered with real Mexican newspaper, the tables, walls and ceilings are the colors of modern Mexico."

Well...um...OK. I only hope the newsprint doesn't get on my pants.

Coral Gables: 305-444-5044
South Miami: 305-669-9898