Calexico is a border city in California: a portmanteau of the words California and Mexico and a perfect intermingling of music genres, food and dance. Its subtropical hot desert climate and landscape is in itself a colourful mix of giant redwood trees, snow-capped peaks, fertile valleys and beaches.
It’s one of the world’s most diverse landscapes.
The band of the same name is an Americana, indie, country, folk and Latin rock band from Arizona.
The music style, like the city it gets its name from, is a blend of southern Californian and Mexican-inspired sounds.
Delicious meat at Calexico. Picture: Dimpho Maja/African News Agency (ANA)
Their feel-good harmonies, alongside legends The Eagles, The Band, John Coltrane, and The Beastie Boys, will be on repeat and as loud as speakers can go in Johannesburg’s very own Calexico: an Americana-style restaurant and vinyl bar at 44 Stanley.
A former 1930s industrial complex transformed into a boutique shopping destination, 44 Stanley offers a great selection of designer clothing stores and cafés. Grab a drink with friends, or hang out over a lazy outdoor lunch at Calexico.
This newly launched spot has quirky décor, an impressive vinyl wall and the much-anticipated menu created by consulting chef Robyn Timson-Moss.
The Calexico team and now resident chef Cecelia Hobyani ensure the quality of the ingredients is what makes the food special - the produce is fresh, seasonal and locally sourced.
Many recipes are gluten free and there are many delicious options for vegetarians - think mushroom skewers and hearty mac and cheese.
Side dishes consist of corn, beer bread and crunchy slaw.
Calexico is a great night out. Picture: Dimpho Maja/African News Agency (ANA)
For the meat lovers, there are sticky free-range smoked ribs with homemade BBQ sauce (nothing bottled here), rotisserie style chipotle chicken and flavourful free-range burgers.
“We pride ourselves on diversity and originality,” said owner Larry Hodes. Plus some old favourites.
Visit Calexico from Tuesday to Thursday, 10.30am to 10.30pm; Friday from 9.30am to midnight; Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30pm; and Sunday from 10am to 6.30pm.
Bookings: [email protected]