After visiting a friend at Nanaimo Hospital, we were a little peckish and particularly thirsty so we headed to GINA’S MEXICAN CAFE in Nanaimo for a Margarita, one of our friend’s favourite drinks. 

GINA’S is that bright pink old house on the hill in Nanaimo, behind the Law Courts, and they have been in business since 1968.  Their website states that they are ‘a Tacky but friendly place’.  Well it is sort of tacky.  Funky might be another description. Bright colours, lots of Mexican decor, Sombreros, Christmas lights etc. But to stay in business for nearly 40 years they must be doing something right. 

Gina’s menu features the usual Mexican fare. Burritos, Tacos, Nachos, Enchiladas, Fajitas, etc.. And Margaritas! Lime and Strawberry. 

We went there for Margarita’s.  I said to our server, ‘Do you know what is a good drink on a cold winter day?’ Her answer, MARGARITAS. We ordered and quickly two blended icy delicious traditional margaritas were on the table. Quesadillas and a Chimichanga were our choices and while we waited a dish of corn chips and Gina’s home made salsa arrived.  Perfect! 

The portions are generous and the Chicken Chimichanga was more than I could finish. Of course it included refried beans, Mexican Rice and corn. 

The Quesadilla also had sour cream and salsa. If you like it hotter you can ask for extra spice too. 

We enjoyed Gina’s so much we went back yesterday for Nachos and Fish Tacos.  And Margaritas! So good. The Cheese Nachos were tasty with lots of cheese and Salsa. The Tacos were Snapper sautéed in small pieces. Very good but I prefer deep fried cod in a Taco like the ones at the Lantzville Pub. 

We cautiously avoided dessert but their specialty is Gina’s in house made CHEESECAKE! Different flavours daily. 

If you are a Mexican food fan, you must try Gina’s. It’s tacky but it’s good and friendly. Open 7 days a week from 1130AM.  

Check out their Menu here; https://ginasmexicancafe.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Ginas-Mexican-Restaurant-Menu_2024.pdf

You will find Gina’s at 47 Skinner in Downtown Nanaimo.  It’s the bright pink & blue house on the hill.  Free parking too. 

Just saying…