After realising how good Mexican food tastes, I'm off on a journey to suss out more Mexican restaurants. And I set my sights on the popular Margarita's Dempsey Hill. With the unique buildings, which are British barracks converted into upscaled restaurants, and lush greenery populating this area, it just feels so different from the buzz and bustle of urban life in Singapore. And Margarita's takes it further by giving us a peek into what Mexican culture is all about. The exterior is adorned with colourful decoration and chairs, exuding unabashed vibrancy. The strong Mexican vibes within the restaurant makes me feel like I'm in Mexico. And an exciting "trip" this is.
Crab Empandas with Annatto Seeds is pure amazingly good comfort food. Lots of lightly seasoned briny sweet crab meat is wrapped in slightly crispy deep fried skin dough, and this does remind me of one of Singaporeans' favourite snack: curry puff. Texture wise is quite similar, the taste is very different. Crab Empandas is full of nuanced flavours from the hearty amount of different ingredients added. The spinach rice is oh-so-good. It has the perfect fluffy texture and is imbued with savoury flavours. I definitely become a fan of Mexican rice dishes because of this dish.
Guacamole & Chips is served in very generous portion, which is great for sharing. For solo diners like me, I do wish there is a half portion option. Nonetheless, this is a hearty treat. The sweetness of corn in the chips is complemented by the medley of ingredients in the Guacamole, such as buttery avocado, chopped onions, lime, tomato, cilentro, serrano. This covers a huge chuck of the flavour spectrum, each coming in light doses.
What's a trip to a restaurant called Margarita's without ordering some margaritas. And so at the friendly staff's recommendation, I got Patron Silver Margarita with salt crystals lacing the rim of the glass. It will really pretty. It's very interesting to sip on the crushed iced sweetened alcohol with a bit of salt.
I love the ambience here. It's colourful, vibrant, feels free-spirited and has this rich Mexican feel. And it is so spacious that families can come here for gatherings. Good for dates too on days where you just want to let your hair down and have fun. The service crew is very friendly, helpful and polite.
The food here is focused on subtlety of many flavours and I like it. Just that the portions are so big that I can only get to try two dishes. That said, the dishes here are perfect for sharing. Dining here is quite an adventure, not only for the Mexican setting, but also for the Crab Empandas, from which I get to explore a kind of new taste. Look forward to try other items on the menu.
Thoughts: Fun and chill dining experience
11 Dempsey Road
Nearest MRT: Napier
