1355 Main St, 941-366-1618

Fresh pomegranate seeds and poke tuna are not the first thing one expects to me served alongside a bowl of tortilla chips, but El Melvin downtown doesn’t bother with expectations.

A playful twist on traditional Mexican fare, El Melvin doesn’t try to rewrite any classics they’ve just added in a few players. One dish that gets a modern remix is the Trio Tasting appetizer. Along with the requisite bowl of salsa, you’re treated to the ultimate upgraded guac: El Pina, filled with sweet, juicy pineapple is studded with ruby red pomegranate seeds, spiced pepitas and topped with queso fresco. The real game changer, however, is the Tuna Poke, a complete left field addition that hits an absolute homerun. Spicy, tangy and fresh it pairs perfectly with house-made corn tortilla chips and is especially delicious mixed with the pineapple guacamole creating a tropical and tasty Hawaiian/Mexican mash-up.

With a medley of taco options including the temping Carnitas and Adobo Chicken, the smash hits were the Piri Piri Shrimp and Crispy Skirt Steak. Order one of each and share for a surf & turf takeover of your tastebuds. If you’re looking to go outside the box there’s also Crispy Duck Flautas and a Vegan Fajita with romesco almond sauce.

And if you’re just there for bevs, which this year has certainly allowed for, try one of their seven sinful different margaritas like the cirtusy Pink Cadillac or intriguing Avocado version.

El Melvin is open Monday through Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday 11am-11pm, Saturday 10am-11pm and Sunday 10am-9pm.

1355 Main St, 941-366-1618

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