The Flavour Report with Derek Goforth: Can the Mad Mexican deliver authentic hits?

Craving a little excitement in our weekend routine, we embarked on a journey to the Mad Mexican restaurant, spurred on by some enthusiastic recommendations. Tucked conveniently next to Queens IGA, parking was easy, and the entrance beckoned us in with its vibrant colors and cosy charm. Once inside, we were greeted with an ambiance that could only be described as warm and inviting, complete with dim lighting and stylish decor. Our server was quick to welcome us and take our order, leaving us to peruse a menu that was positively brimming with mouth-watering options, ranging from authentic Mexican dishes to more conventional lunch fare. However, our initial excitement was dampened when we discovered that the prices were a little steep, with most appetisers hovering around the $20 mark and entrees costing an additional $15 or more. Despite this, we eagerly placed our order, indulging in jalepeno poppers, buffalo wings, fish tacos, and spiced up corn on the cob. Sadly, our anticipation was short-lived, as the food failed to live up to expectations. The street corn was flavorful, but priced at almost $13 for essentially one cob cut into small pieces. The fish tacos were passable, with a burst of fresh herbs, but the fish itself lacked flavor and the batter was disappointingly soggy. The Jalepeno poppers were also a letdown, lacking any noticeable heat, while only the wings provided us with some satisfaction. The wings were not only a savory delight but also came in generous portions, making the other choices seem even more meager in comparison. Despite our newfound appreciation for the wings, the high prices left us feeling a little ripped off, with the bill totaling over $80 including drinks. While we’ve heard from others who praise the Mad Mexican, we simply cannot recommend it based on our experience. However, we do recognise that our opinion may not be representative of the restaurant’s overall quality, and we encourage others to try it for themselves. All in all, the Mad Mexican offered a cosy atmosphere and a wide-ranging menu, but the steep prices and uninspiring food left our group wanting. While the wings were enjoyable, the other dishes were forgettable, and the prices simply did not justify the portions or the quality of the food we received. If you’re feeling adventurous, it may be worth a visit, but we’ll be exploring other options in the meantime.