Taste of Mexico on opening night

The latest edition to Havelock North's restaurant scene had a Mexican twist at the official opening of Mamacita last night.

Mamacita director Liv Reynolds was excited to finally open the doors to the Mexican-themed restaurant and hoped it would fit seeminglessly among the other Havelock North establishments.

"I'm really excited about this project. We have been working really hard behind closed doors and it's really nice to have some people in here."

About 60 people filled the restaurant on Havelock Rd to enjoy a variety of margaritas, mexican beers and authentic food.

She said the idea came from her travels throughout North and Central America where she "re-discovered" Mexican cuisine.

"We normally think of Mexican food being that El Paso, mince and re-fried beans food but it's really so different to that.

"I thought if we could bring the exciting and delicious flavours of Mexican food back here, using fresh and beautiful Hawke's Bay produce and supplies, it would just be an awesome place."

One of the features of the new restaurant is the Mexican wood wall which draws its origins from a Hawke's Bay landmark.

"My husband came up with the idea for the wood wall. It looks great and all the old wood for has come from the seats at McLean Park Stadium."

She said another reason for opening Mamacita was to encourage people to enjoy coming to and eating out in the heart of Havelock North.

The restaurant is managed by Mrs Reynolds and front-of-staff manager Nick Neilson. Clint Toomer is head chef.