The Mariscos-ElPacifico Blog
Stories, guides and news from our kitchen: the dishes of Sinaloa, how to order like a regular, and what is happening at our restaurants.
What Is Aguachile? Sinaloa’s Spicy Shrimp Classic at Mariscos-ElPacifico
If ceviche is the dish most people know, aguachile is the one Sinaloa is proud of. The name means “chile water,” and it describes the dish perfectly: raw shrimp, butterflied and bathed in a vibrant mix of fresh lime juice and blended chiles until the shrimp turns tender and slightly opaque.
Unlike ceviche, which usually rests for a while, aguachile is served almost immediately, so the shrimp keeps a fresh, snappy texture. It is finished with thin slices of red onion and cucumber, which cool the heat and add crunch. Most people eat it with tostadas or saltine crackers, and a cold michelada on the side.
At Mariscos-ElPacifico, aguachile is one of the best ways to taste the flavors of Sinaloa. New to it? Ask your server about the heat level, then share a plate with the table alongside our Ceviche Pacífico to compare the two.
Molcajete Frío vs. Molcajete Caliente: How to Choose at Mariscos-ElPacifico
A molcajete is a traditional Mexican mortar carved from volcanic stone. It has been used for centuries to grind salsas and spices, and because the stone holds temperature so well, it also makes a dramatic serving dish.
Our Molcajete Frío is all about freshness. The stone is chilled and filled with shrimp, octopus and seafood in a zesty, spicy marinade. It eats like a giant shared ceviche and is perfect for warm Florida afternoons.
The Molcajete Caliente is the opposite experience. It arrives at the table still bubbling, loaded with seafood and meats in a rich house-made salsa. The hot stone keeps everything sizzling while you eat, so it is ideal for cooler evenings or for anyone who wants a hearty meal.
Can’t decide? Bring a group to Mariscos-ElPacifico and order one of each. Explore both on our menu.
Weekends at Mariscos-ElPacifico: DJ, Karaoke, Mariachis & Live Bands
Dinner at Mariscos-ElPacifico doesn’t have to end when the plates are cleared. Every weekend our restaurants come alive with live entertainment, from DJ sets and karaoke nights to mariachis and live bands.
It is the kind of atmosphere you find at family celebrations in Mexico: good food on the table, music filling the room and everyone singing along. Weekends are a great time to celebrate a birthday, catch up with friends or simply unwind after a long week.
Our tip: arrive a little early, order a round of botanas such as shrimp and octopus, La Torre or chicharrones de pescado, and settle in for the night. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see who is performing and what specials are running this weekend.
Taste It for Yourself at Mariscos-ElPacifico
Reading about aguachile is good. Eating it is better. We would love to see you soon.