The chipotle dinner at Gina's is unchanged since it was created decades ago and loyal customers always keep coming back. (Spencer Sterritt/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

spicy

Signature Dish: Gina’s Mexican Cafe Chipotle Dinner

Jul 9, 2021 | 11:32 AM

NANAIMO — A classic Mexican dish served at Nanaimo’s famous pink house on the hill brings all the spice and heat you’ll want for a fun time out with friends.

The chipotle dinner at Gina’s Mexican Cafe has been served for decades and is one of the most popular items on their sizzling menu.

It’s served with either chicken, steak or seafood on a sprawling bed of rice, topped with Gina’s mouthwatering chipotle and cheese sauce. This is baked to perfection in the oven and served with beans and corn on the side.

It’s a massive dish which Sharon Stairs of Gina’s said keeps everyone satisfied.

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“The chipotle dinner is quite flavourful and a big portion. The big eaters are super happy and everyone else gets to take some home for lunch the next day.”

Of all the items on Gina’s menu, Stairs said the chipotle dinner is the one they’re most proud of.

“It’s one we created ourselves. We do enchiladas, burritos, tacos, all the Mexican standards but the chipotle dinner is one we created ourselves and it’s a real favourite among our customers.”

Anyone who can handle the entire dish by themselves in one sitting doesn’t win a prize but they will get a firm pat on the back and the respect of everyone in the room.

Trying to see who can eat the most and having a great time doing it is a wonderful way to spend a meal at Gina’s. The atmosphere of the quaint and quirky house is perfect for a fun night out on the town.

“Gina’s is a fun, funky, easy-going place where people come to hang out, kick back and relax with their friends and family.”

Stairs said the offerings from Gina’s are perfectly designed to let their chefs have fun as well.

“There’s a great sense of playfulness with Mexican food. It’s easy to be creative and have fun with the spices, seasonings and different sides.”

Gina’s has served delicious food from the house on the hill for nearly 40 years. In that time, the vibe of the restaurant has never changed, though fun decorations may have been added. The original owner still stops by frequently to help out and many staff have been there from the beginning.

“We’ve always represented family, fun and good times,” Stairs said.

Gina’s Mexican Cafe is open for in-restaurant dining and takeout every day from 12 to 8 p.m., open until 9 on Friday and Saturday.

Signature Dish is brought to you by Island Savings – A Division of First West Credit Union, learn more at https://www.islandsavings.ca/.

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