Here at The Digest, we consider ourselves to be major foodies. That being said, we love when restaurants take advantage of fresh, seasonal flavors. Summer is an opportune time for chefs to change up their menus and create inspired dishes that epitomize the bright and refreshing taste of the season. If you’re in the mood for Mexican (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?) Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is beating the heat with their brand new warm weather dishes. We stopped to by their Englewood location to give them a try.
In addition to the restaurant’s already popular menu, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is introducing diners to seasonal specialties including beef brisket tacos and a spicy shrimp stuffed avocado. Throughout the month of July, they’re also offering savory buffalo chicken empanadas, bbq brisket burritos, a Mexican cobb salad and deluxe burger quesadilla. And what better way to cool off than with a cocktail? The bar is mixing up refreshing watermelon frescas, coconut margaritas, summer wine coolers and a spicy concoction that they call “The Wolf.”
Watermelon Fresca
If you’re looking to indulge, we suggest ordering the bbq brisket burrito which, in comparison, is closer to the size of a small child. No we’re not joking, and yes, knives and forks are encouraged. The entire burrito is stuffed with a hearty serving of tender meat, refried beans, smoked gouda cheese, sweet bbq sauce and crunchy onion straws. And although you’ll be reluctant to share, it seems as if that’s the only way to go if you want to finish this thing.
Brisket is used again as a base in their taco offering — and for good reason. The meat itself is well-seasoned after being dry-rubbed and slow-roasted for hours with serrano and ancho chilies. The brisket tacos are then topped with thinly-sliced radishes, cilantro, a sprinkle of queso fresco and served with a side of rice and refried beans.
Spicy Shrimp Stuffed Avocado
For a lighter, figure-friendly alternative, the new spicy shrimp stuffed avocado will leave you feeling full and your waistline intact. Two avocado halves are served over a bed of shredded lettuce and pico de gallo, then filled with a mix of finely chopped shrimp, cucumbers, mango, cilantro, onion and jalapeno. There is just a hint of lime and kick of spice, but that all gets cooled down by the sweetness of the shrimp and mango.
When you’re ready to wash it all down, turn your attention to the drink menu and choose from two fruity cocktail options or something on the spicy side. The watermelon fresca, a personal favorite, is made with Lunazul Blanco Tequila, Grand Gala (similar to Grand Marnier), watermelon puree and both lemon and lime juice. If that wasn’t enough, the drink is topped off “Coronarita” style but instead of beer, it’s an inverted bottle of Prosecco. The coconut margarita is made with traditional ingredients including tequila and Triple Sec but gets a splash of toasted coconut rum for an island-inspired vibe. If you want to turn up the heat, “The Wolf” is made Lunazul Blanco Tequila, orange juice, lime juice and jalapeno peppers.
The Wolf
With summer going by fast, you’ve got to get your fiesta on at Blue Moon Mexican Cafe with four convenient locations in Englewood, Woodcliff Lake, Wyckoff and Bronxville. You can keep up with their specials and all their event happenings by visiting their website.
Photos by Jeremy Smith
About the Author/s
Abby is The Digest's Managing Editor. She spends her time looking at dogs on Instagram and eating her way around Jersey City.
