It doesn't take much to make our top five 'taquerías' when there are only five. But which ones take Mex to the max? Celine Asril dons her poncho to find out who's the head honcho
Medium-sized pliable rounds of thin, yellow and rough corn tortillas ($13.50) are about as Mexican as it gets – unfortunately. If you must, steer towards the lightly spiced, mildly spicy shredded beef instead of the bland chicken. Although not quite tender, this flat plate of meat and veggies is a good match for the runny guacamole. 32 Lorong Mambong (6462 1650). Take a taxi or bus 106.
These tacos ($7.50) overflow with shreds of pre-cooked beef similar to spicy kimchi-flavoured strips, a heap of shredded lettuce and a generous dollop of pink mayo dressing. This is not quite the bare-bones-yet-robust Mexican street food we were looking for – seems the Mexican chef has integrated well into Singapore fast-food tastes. Rather too well, perhaps. Stall 13, Plaza by the Park, 51 Bras Basah Rd (8113 6295, www.themexicantacobar.com). MRT: Dhoby Ghaut.
Beef, pork and cochinita pibil (marinated suckling pork) tacos ($21.80-$23.80 for a plate of five) have only recently been added to the menu at this ‘beach club’. Of the excellent trio, the creamy, marinated pulled pork stood out for its sweet, warm puréed-bean-like taste and texture. It comes a little sour and spicy with sides of marinated red onions and a red citrus-chilli salsa. 1390 East Coast Parkway (6443 3005, www.myrasbeachclub.com). Take a taxi.
The meat on Señor’s pork tacos ($2.50 each) slices off a little dry and has the saltiness of jerky – possibly because it comes off a rotating vertical spit – but the hot, smooth corn tortilla, chopped onions and fresh cilantro make them simple, palatable and well-balanced two-bite eats. The same goes for the fragrant ground-beef tacos ($3 each). #01-12 Blk 3D River Valley Rd (9118 4155, www.senortaco.sg). MRT: Clarke Quay.
The best tacos aren’t actually called ‘tacos’ on this menu, but Pork Carnitas ($24) – tender, massive pork pieces served with a side basket of warm tortillas. The pork is boiled in a concoction of lime and spices until it pulls apart gently. It’s then cubed and deep-fried to get its crisp texture. We suggest smothering it with the robust, dried chilli salsa. 23 Cuppage Rd (6235 0440). MRT: Somerset.
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Oh man. I don't know about the rest but the taco from senor taco at raffles city...( A take out counter) It took just one bite to make me want to go back again. A definite must try!
Posted on Wed 15 Dec 2010 21:36:04
Aye Caramba! Do another feature on mexican dishes?
Posted on Thu 14 Oct 2010 10:51:49
I am a Mexican and for me Senor Taco is the one that has the true Mexican tacos and absolutely mouth watering fresh salsas!
Posted on Mon 13 Sep 2010 20:48:33
Cha cha is not run by mexicans while the others are mexican chefs....therefore cha cha is just an imitation the rest are quite nice just VIVA mexico is a bit expensive
Posted on Fri 14 May 2010 00:21:35
Adding another recommendation to the list: Tequila Blue at Changi Village. http://angela.blursotong.com/2010/04/27/tequila-blue/ Did a short post with pictures on my blog. Address and googlemap details at the bottm.
Posted on Fri 30 Apr 2010 10:00:41