Despite being surrounded by the tastiest Thai food offerings in the world, there are only so many plates of som tam and pineapple fried rice you can enjoy before you find yourself craving something different when in Bangkok. The good thing is the capital has no shortage of international cuisines either, and Mexican food is becoming increasingly popular.
So when you feel like swapping fish sauce for smoked chilli salsa, head to any one of these restaurants that serve authentic Mexican food.
1. Casa Azul
Having opened less than a year ago, this has quickly established itself as the go-to Mexican food locale in Ari, a hip neighborhood in the Northern part of Bangkok. Their commitment to serving up authentic flavours means they make everything from scratch. The menu is small, like the restaurant itself, but what they do, they do well.
I started with the black bean soup, which was thick and creamy without being too heavy. Next, my vegetarian burrito was full of crisp veggies but the tortilla itself was a bit undercooked for my taste. I washed it all down with a fresh and strong dragon fruit margarita – they also have mango, passion fruit, mangosteen, cherry, watermelon and original.
Come here for Taco Tuesdays, when every taco is THB50. Enjoy your tacos with a fruity margarita with a view of Frida Kahlo-themed walls.
Tip: Ari is a great place for anyone looking for the perfect neighbourhood to rent or just a nice night out. See what other restaurants and bars are hotspots in The Hip And Not-To-Be-Missed Ari Neighbourhood.
2. La Monita
This true Bangkok classic and the subject of many a food blog article never disappoints. Brightly painted walls and a convenient location make this a great choice for meeting up with friends over lunch or dinner. Here, the tacos, burritos and chimichangas come a la carte or with simple rice and beans. While the latter is nothing special, the tacos are delicious and filling. I went for the vegetarian option, although my friend swears by the chorizo.
I can’t say I wasn’t tempted by the extensive margarita and beer menu; I’ll have to come back for dinner sometime soon.
Come here for The salsa bar, which offers 12 variants including pineapple and tama-rind. The portions are hearty and flavours are authentic.
3. Zambrero
This self-proclaimed ‘Mexican food with a mission’ chain offers diners a chance to give back while enjoying simple, made-to-order burritos, tacos, and enchiladas. Those who’ve been to a Chipotle in the USA or Canada will notice that Zambrero has the same concept: choose your meat base and style (tacos, quesadilla, burrito or salad) and add your favorite Tex-Mex-style toppings. Tip: If you opt for the vegetarian version, all you’ll get is toppings!
This may not be my favourite among the restaurants reviewed, but its convenient location means I may give it another try.
Come here to fulfill those sudden Mexican food cravings when you’re out shopping at Central World or the many malls in the area.
4. Coyote Mexican Bar and Grill
Slightly hidden in a side alley and away from the madness of Sukumvit Soi 11, you won’t go wrong with their nightly specials and fun (read: kitschy) cowboy décor. Stop by for reasonably priced classic Mexican fare. I loved the flautas and nachos, which are perfect for sharing with friends after a night out.
Swing by after work to sample a few of their strong and creatively-named cocktails, and then head straight over to Levels Nightclub next door. Thursday nights at Coyote, anyone?
Come here for a late night bite when only Thai food stalls and McDonalds are still open.
Read more of the best of Bangkok:
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Eating Out In Bangkok: 4 Under-The-Radar Outdoor Food Markets |
50 New Reasons To Love Bangkok |
Thonglor: The Go-To Place For Hip Bars & Good Beers In Bangkok |
