Trios of Guacamole

While I’m a fan of Mercadito’s tacos – particularly the shrimp with chipotle mojo and avocado – my favorite item on the menu is the seasonal guacamole. The restaurant makes really nice guacamoles that start with a base that’s the perfect blend of smooth and chunky avocado. Then they add fruits and vegetables that are reflections of the season, and it’s always fun to see what they’re using. A recent favorite is the piña, which is made with pineapple, grilled Serrano, and tomatillo pico de gallo. The pineapple adds a really nice sweetness that you don’t typically find in guacamoles, and the chips are always salty and crispy and ideal for scooping up the dip.

This Saturday, Mercadito celebrates its third anniversary in Chicago by offering trios of guacamole and ceviche for half off. The trios regularly cost $14.50, so for $7.25, you’ll get to put together a plate with three of the five guacamole options. Besides the pineapple, there’s a traditional guacamole, a mango version made with jicama and chipotle, an orange variety with chile de árbol and crispy garlic, a corn guacamole with pico de gallo, cilantro, and queso fresco, and a spicy version that’s made with sautéed chile serrano, garlic, oregano, and tomatillo pico de gallo. On the ceviche side, choose three from the list of bay scallops, shrimp, mahi mahi, or octopus ceviches, which come in a spiced broth and have herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Ceviche trios usually cost $27.50, so for $18.75, you’ll get a serving of fresh seafood. I’d also recommend that you pair your food with a Los Hermanos cocktail, made with mezcal, passion fruit, mint, agave nectar, and yucateca.

And if you’re the late night type, Mercadito is hosting a party with live music, dancers, and DJs that kicks off at 10 pm, so you can hold your guacamole cravings for a late dinner.

Mercadito
108 W Kinzie Street
Chicago, IL 60654
(312) 329-9555
Website