Chica Linda - Surry Hills

Designer Mike Delany seems to have taken a bold approach with the color scheme of this restaurant, which may leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed at first. However, after a few Panamargaritas ($17), made with jalapeno, aloe drink, agave, and tequila, you'll find yourself easing into the vibrant atmosphere. Start your South American culinary journey with arepas, delicious corn flatbreads stuffed with options like Soft Shell Crab ($6) or Smoked Pork Belly ($6) with honey chipotle glaze and pickled slaw. Don't let past experiences with chewy Chicken Hearts ($6) deter you - these skewers are worth trying, especially with a squeeze of char-grilled lemon. Asado Prawns ($15/3) are also a must-try, especially with the fiery scotch bonnet sauce. The Caipirinha Amazonica ($17) cocktail will help cool things down with pineapple, coconut sugar, and cachaca. For mains, expect Latino family feast style dishes, such as juicy Puerto Rican Roast Pork ($35) served with tomato, corn, and black bean salsa. A side of Coca Cola Rice and Beans ($9) is the perfect accompaniment, along with a schooner of Kosciusko ($7) each. Finish your meal with the Guava Empanada ($14), a delightful way to end your dining experience.

The restaurant has a lovely decor, but that is the only positive aspect. The service is slow and the food is not noteworthy.