Cali-Mex

Eh. I know that Cali-​Mex is a beloved chain here in Hong Kong, but it just didn’t do much for my California Mexican-​loving heart.
Living near San Francisco Mission’s district has probably spoiled me for life when it comes to Mexican food. Some even say that the tacos and burritos in the Mission are just as good — if not better — as what you can get in Mexico herself. And it’s not surprising, considering California’s access to sustainably-​raised meats and produce raised on farms within driving distance. But I digress.
I decided to really go for it (I was hungry!) and ordered a steak burrito… but not just any steak burrito, as I upgraded to the 100% pure Australian Angus rump steak, which is marinated for 48 hours before cooking. The burrito is also advertised as coming with cheese and sour cream, so I made no mention of those ingredients as they’re built in (bookmark this note for later).
Once I got home, I dug into my first burrito in Hong Kong with fervor. But it wasn’t what I had dreamed, as the tortilla had a bland flavor, the steak’s texture was much too chewy and cut into pieces much too large for a burrito, and there were zero signs of the promised cheese and sour cream. Welcome to burrito mediocrity.
Maybe next time I’ll try their chicken, but I’ll be sure to reiterate I really do want that cheese and sour cream… because you’ll pay for it either way!

Cali-​Mex is the best bet for Mexican in HK. Take that with a grain of salt: understood it’s not going to satisfy a real craving for authentic Mexican, but for HK it’s about the best you can get.
There’s a tough debate between the Cali-​Mex chain and Little Burro, but Cali-​Mex is definitely winning the market just by their presence popping up with 8 locations now across HK island.
Although it’s not cheap (actually kind of expensive for a place that’s geared towards take away even though there are seats), it’s certainly not as overpriced as some of the other hip Mexican, sit-​down restaurants in Central or Ktown.
I’ve eaten at the Central and Sheung Wan locations and so glad this one continues to serve the same quality as expected.
Tonight I was feeling a little hungrier so went with a Barbacoa beef burrito with refried beans while also sharing nachos and mixed veggie quesadilla. I love the Brava salsa (spiciest), but man it has some heat. Not need for extra Tabasco with this stuff, but be careful cause it can sneak up on you.
Great to finally have a Mexican option in the area!