Following the success of their 20 Hong Kong branches, Cali-Mex Bar & Grill has opened its first Thailand branch here in Bangkok, bringing new flavors to the city. Set beneath Sukhumvit’s Holiday Inn, the restaurant’s Bangkok branch takes on a diner-slash-sports-bar feel, with high stools, cozy booths, brick walls and colorful artwork reflective of the venue’s conceptual roots—a US to Mexico road trip.

The idea for the luxury fast food joint saw the founders concoct a plan to bring fresh and healthy Californian style to Mexican classics, like nachos, burritos and quesadillas. The result is tasty, simple food with a focus on quality farm produce flown in fresh daily from around the world, ranging from Australian Angus beef and Mexican avocado to Vietnamese seafood.

As well as Cali-Mex staples, the restaurant serves up specialties from the grill, like ribeye steaks, grilled Atlantic salmon, chicken parmigiana and even fish and chips. They also have a number of gluten-free and vegetarian options, like spinach and artichoke dip, salads and mixed bean and spinach burritos.

It’s easy to get carried away with the constant tortilla chip refills and custom-made beer taps installed on each table, but try to hold back so you can sample the extensive menu. Be sure to save space for the cheese-piled beef tacos (B399/three pieces) and the equally cheesy quesadillas stuffed with juicy pulled pork (B299). For a taste of the true pièce de résistance, order El Mexicano: a huge beef burger piled high with guacamole, spicy jalapenos and melted American cheese (B499).

The self-service beer is very reasonably priced, with Singha at B0.26/ml and Asahi at B0.30/ml, meaning you won’t get stung if you keep on pouring. For something a little lighter there’s also a selection of cocktails and mocktails to choose from, from classics to Cali-Mex inventions, like the punchy Michelada, which offers a twist on the classic bloody Mary with its combination of Corona, tomato juice, tabasco, soy sauce, celery and Worcestershire sauce. Alternatively, the refreshing Paloma mixes Olmeca Blanco tequila, grapefruit Jarritos and lime juice.

All-in-all, this chilled-out spot is the perfect place to while away an afternoon with plenty of tasty food, comfy seating, and beer on tap.

G/F, Holiday Inn Bangkok Sukhumvit, Sukhumvit Rd., Bangkok, Thailand. 02-010-3135. Sun-Sat 9-2am.