Craving for something different this weekend? From slow-cooked pork tacos to Argentinean Provoleta, here’s a roundup of cool Latin American restaurants to get your fix.
1. boCHINche
Address: 22 Martin Road #02-01, Singapore 239058 | Tel: 6235 4990 | Opening Hours: 5.30pm – 12am (Tue to Fri), 11am – 1am (Sat), 11am – 12am (Sun)
Argentinean cuisine is not exactly well-known in Singapore, but boCHINche is slowly changing that. While traditional Argentinean food is often associated with meat, the restaurant serves up more than just that. Besides dishes like Braised Lamb Shoulder Empanadas and Caramelised Pork Belly with grilled prawns and chorizo, the European-influenced menu also does updated takes on classic Argentinean dishes. Try the popular Provoleta dish, which consists of melted Provolone cheese topped with almonds and oregano honey.
Most of the dishes on the menu are served tapas-style, so don’t expect huge portions. That’s not to say you won’t leave full and satisfied though – the food is rich, flavourful and pretty damn memorable. Oh and if you’re wondering about the name, ‘bochinche’ refers to an uproar or ruckus in Argentina.
Provoleta (Source: boCHINche Facebook)
2. El Mero Mero
Address: #01-20 Chijmes, 30 Victoria St, Singapore 187996 | Tel: 6337 1377 | Opening Hours: 12pm – 11pm (Mon to Thu), 12pm – 11.30pm (Fri to Sat)
El Mero Mero is nacho typical Mexican restaurant (Geddit geddit? No? OK, awkward.). Unlike most Mexican restaurants, the menu at El Mero Mero explores Mexican cuisine beyond just tacos and burritos – think Charcoal Grill Rib-eye Steak and Suckling Pig Bao, alongside Kurobuta Pork Tacos and Tortilla Soup. Most of the ingredients used in their dishes are also sourced directly from Mexico, while their salsas and sauces are made fresh.
The menu at El Mero Mero also changes monthly, so dining there is always a surprise.
(Source: El Mero Mero Facebook)
3. Senor Taco
Address: #01-07/12, 3A/3D River Valley Rd, Clarke Quay, Singapore 179023 | Tel: 6337 6376 | Opening Hours: 6pm – 12am (Sun to Thu), 6pm – 2am (Fri to Sat)
As its name would suggest, Senor Taco is all about well, tacos. From slow-cooked pork belly tacos to flame-grilled beef quesadillas, the casual taqueria has no shortage of authentic Mexican street food. Their hot pepper sauces are also worth a try – think smoky chipotle, guacamole, jalapeno and habanero.
If you’re undecided about which taco to get, drop by for Taco Tuesday where you can get one-for-one on tacos after 6pm. Taco ’bout a good deal (#punny).
(Source: Senor Taco Facebook)
4. J’s Restaurant
Address: 7 Purvis St, #01-01, Singapore 188586 | Tel: 6887 4787 | Opening Hours: 12.30pm – 6.30pm daily
True-blue foodies will remember that before its major revamp, Latin American restaurant J’s was first known as El Toro. While the offerings have remained largely the same, the restaurant has also added a vegetarian and Halal menu – which is pretty rare for Latin American restaurants in Singapore.
The food at J’s Restaurant is a mix of modern European cuisine with Latin American influences, including dishes like Lamb Tostadas, Paella and Chipotle Meatballs. Save some space for dessert too, because you’ll want to try J’s signature crispy churros, served with salted caramel bananas, fresh mangoes and coconut-infused mascarpone sabayon.
Lamb Tostadas (Source: J’s Facebook)
5. Mexout
Address: 39 Pekin St, Singapore 048769 | Tel: 9770 7441 | Opening Hours: 11.30am – 10pm (Mon to Fri)
Mexout is sort of like Singapore’s version of Chipotle, where you can get customisable burritos, tacos and more. Pick from their range of bases (burrito, taco, nachos, salad bowl or rice bowl), stuff it with your favourite fillings and sauces, then round off your meal with a side of churros or a glass of sangria.
Mexout also does online orders and delivery, so you can have your Mexican food fix in the comfort of your own home (or office).
(Source: Mexout Facebook)
