‘Watts for Dinner: Chilakil has the authentic Mexican food East Naples is looking for
Chilakil Mexican Grill & Tortilleria in East Naples derives its name from the dish chilakiles (think of an authentic version of nachos); and yes, they’re on the menu.
The cozy and homey little restaurant offers dine in, carry out – including fresh-made tortillas and chips – and if you dine in, you’ll start with a basket of those delicious chips and salsa (green and red).
My dining companion and I devoured one basket of chips before our entrees arrived. I prefer the green salsa, which is mixed with avocado. And we ordered a second basket to accompany dinner.
Speaking of dinner, I order the tampiqueña ($14.49), grilled skirt steak served atop cheese quesadillas with green salsa, grilled onions and melted cheese. The dish also features rice, refried beans, lettuce, tomato and avocado.
While the steak was a little overcooked, I couldn’t argue with the taste: authentic with a homemade appeal. The rice is flavorful, but the refried beans are the star of the side dishes.
My dining companion ordered the chiles rellenos ($13.99), poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and topped with red sauce. The dish also featured rice and refried beans and is served with warm corn tortillas.
I’ve also had the chiles rellenos and it’s one of my favorite dishes, especially at Chilakil.
Both entrees offered the perfect balance of ingredients and a signature Mexican flavor.
In addition to a wide variety of chicken, steak, pork and seafood plates – including fajitas and enchiladas – the restaurant also features tacos, gorditas, sopes, burritos, quesadillas, tortas and a variety of soups.
Chilakil Mexican Grill & Tortilleria opens at 10 a.m. Monday through Friday and opens at 9 a.m. on weekends. Through the week, the restaurant closes at 9 p.m., but stays open until 10 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
On weekends, you can usually watch the taco-making process up close and personal as the restaurant features a cart outside making street tacos.
Chilakil Mexican Grill & Tortilleria for authentic flavor and homemade taste.
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If you go
Chilakil Mexican Grill & Tortilleria
- 11225 Tamiami Trail E., Naples
- 239-530-4420
- www.chilakil.net