Spice level warning — Mole is not what I expected

I underestimated Mole. The smoky and earthy description didn't prepare me for the reality. Mexican chocolate brings a heat or pungency that builds steadily rather than hitting upfront. By halfway through I was sweating but couldn't stop eating.

Mexican cuisine is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The an Oaxacan restaurant setting means locals eat this with ease while visitors like me reach for water. Mexican lager with lime cut through it better than water would have. Don't order the mild version out of caution — the full version is the point. I'd go back. Three stars only because I wasn't warned.