TIME TO SAY HOLA, AS TIA’S MEXICAN CANTINA OPENS AT THE GATE

FLIGHTS of tequila, street style tacos and traditional dishes covering everything from quesadillas to chimichanga are now on offer at Newcastle’s newest Mexican restaurant.

The eagerly-anticipated Tia’s Mexican Cantina opened its doors yesterday (Thurs 3 September) with hungry diners able to get their first glimpse of the unique Latin-themed artwork, don a giant sombrero – and tuck into some authentic food.

The restaurant follows on from the success of Tia’s in Durham, but with an extended menu covering everything from Mexican staples to unique twists on classics.

Visitors can try starters including a range of crispy tostadas, loaded quesadillas and even elotes – Mexican street corn.

The menu also offers a range of sharing dishes including Tia’s famous Bloomin’ Rose – a whole onion deep fried in batter and served with a choice of dips.

Specialities include Mexico’s national dish – Mole Poblano – which combines a choice of slow-braised pulled beef, chicken or roasted veg cooked in a rich sauce, flavoured with dark chocolate.

Fajitas, enchilada and burritos are also available with a range of fillings and those with a hearty appetite can also take on the Tia’s challenge – in the shape of the Tia-Saurus Wreck.

This might burger costs £39 but comprises two beef patties, a crispy battered chicken breast, crunchy nachos, chili, golden onion petals, a pound of fries, six chicken wings, coleslaw and sweet BBQ sauce – with a pint of a soft drink to wash it all down.

Anyone who wants to take on the challenge – and empties their plate in 30 minutes or less – will get their meal for free.

The new menu includes a range of margaritas with flavours including marmalade and strawberry and sriracha, along with a number of Mexican-themed cocktails.

Steven Martin, co-owner of Kaleido Leisure which runs Tia’s, said the response so far has been amazing.

“We have literally just opened the doors but have had an incredible amount of interest and people seem to really like the vibe we’ve created,” he said.

“We are so thrilled to now be able to welcome visitors and to showcase everything Tia’s has to offer.”

For further information visit www.tiasmexican.co.uk