By: Maeve McCann | Staff Writer
Looks like Tijuana has some new competition in town. Newport continues to
evolve and change as new businesses and restaurants roll into the city. One of the most
recent of the restaurants to open up is Caliente Mexican Grill, a restaurant dedicated to
freshness and quality, and needless to say, it did not disappoint.
Caliente Mexican Grill opened up in 2005 with one mission: to bring the vibrant
flavors and deep culture of Mexican cuisine to Rhode Island. This new restaurant has
taken the place of Gary’s Handy Lunch which closed in 2023, and many Newport
residents wondered what would be taking its place. Though the restaurant that resides
there has changed, the interior remains the same – that old-time diner vibe, we all enjoy.
I had the pleasure of trying Caliente recently and dare I say I prefer it over
Chipotle. Many of the people I have talked to about the new food joint agree with me.
The popular chain promotes themselves as a food establishment dedicated to freshness.
Though, I don’t see how the quality control is overseen when there are millions of
locations worldwide. Not only did the food at Caliente taste fresh and homemade, it was
certainly cheaper than if you were to go eat at a different food chain. You cannot beat quality. On
their menu they’ve got burritos, burrito bowls, tacos, quesadillas, churros and all the
Mexican classics.
Before Caliente, Il Forno was the go-to late night bite. Honestly, people get
sick of Il Forno. It is quite expensive and cash only, which angers people, and the line is
always incredibly long. It’s because it was the only place open past a certain time. Not
anymore. Caliente recognizes the high demand for late night food; especially cheaper
food. So, they’ve been open later hours on the weekend for people such as college
students, weddings parties, and whoever else who might be craving some food. Honestly,
many people have advised me not to tell others about how amazing this place is, but I cannot keep silent any longer. It is my duty to the broke college students to let them know.
