Singapore’s Mexican food scene has evolved dramatically over the past decade, transforming from a handful of basic Tex-Mex outlets to a vibrant collection of authentic taquerías, modern fusion concepts, and traditional Mexican restaurants. This comprehensive review explores the city’s most notable Mexican establishments, examining their strengths, specialties, and what makes each worth your visit.
The Rising Stars: New Generation Mexican
Huevos
Locations: North Bridge Road, New Bahru
Price Range: $$ (S$15-25 per person)
Huevos represents the new wave of Mexican dining in Singapore—authentic, affordable, and unapologetically popular. What began as a pandemic delivery concept has transformed into one of the city’s most sought-after Mexican spots, with queues during peak hours proving its viral success wasn’t just hype.
What Sets It Apart:
The quality-to-price ratio here is exceptional. Where many Mexican restaurants charge premium prices for small portions, Huevos delivers generously portioned dishes that don’t compromise on authenticity or flavor. The birria beef quesadilla (S$19) features tender, slow-braised meat with that characteristic rich, slightly spicy consommé influence. The baja fish tacos (from S$15 for two) arrive crispy, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
Worth Noting:
Come prepared for the dining time limits—60 minutes at North Bridge, 90 minutes at New Bahru. The menus differ slightly between outlets, so check before you go. Despite the rush, service remains warm and efficient.
Best For: Budget-conscious diners seeking authentic flavors, quick casual meals, groups
Lavi Tapas
Location: Kada
Price Range: $$$ (S$35-50 per person)
The sister concept to the viral Lavi Taco takes a bold approach: reimagining Mexican cuisine through a tapas lens. This isn’t fusion for fusion’s sake—it’s thoughtful reinterpretation that respects both culinary traditions while creating something genuinely new.
What Sets It Apart:
The concise one-page menu forces focus and quality. Every dish demonstrates technical skill and creative thinking. The snapper tamales (S$38) showcase pristine fish wrapped traditionally but presented with modern finesse. But the real revelation is the dessert section—the pear (S$14), filled with walnut crème and balanced with citrusy lemon verbena broth, exemplifies how the kitchen reimagines expectations.
Worth Noting:
Portions are tapas-sized, so budget for multiple dishes per person. The smaller format encourages exploration across the menu, which is precisely the point.
Best For: Adventurous diners, date nights, those seeking modern Mexican interpretations
The Traditionalists: Authentic Mexican Flavors
Mami’s Tamales
Location: Keong Saik
Price Range: $$ (S$20-35 per person)
Few restaurants in Singapore commit to a single traditional dish the way Mami’s Tamales does. This collaboration between Chef Maribel Colmenares and Chef Mauricio Espinoza focuses on tamales—corn masa dough stuffed with various fillings and steamed in corn husks or banana leaves.
What Sets It Apart:
Authenticity that even Mexican expats vouch for. The tamales platter (S$58) offers four varieties, allowing you to experience the range from traditional Mexican flavors to creative Asian-Mexican hybrids. The chorizo molletes (S$14)—open-faced sandwiches with refried beans, melted cheese, and pork sausage—deliver comfort food excellence.
Worth Noting:
This isn’t your typical taco-and-burrito spot, which makes it special. Come with an open mind and willingness to try something less familiar but deeply rooted in Mexican culinary tradition.
Best For: Culinary explorers, those seeking authentic regional Mexican food, tamale enthusiasts
Comida Mexicana
Location: [Check current location]
Price Range: $$$ (S$40-60 per person)
Comida Mexicana takes the premium approach—importing many ingredients directly from Mexico and committing to homemade preparations that honor traditional techniques.
What Sets It Apart:
The queso fundido (from S$26) epitomizes what happens when you don’t compromise on ingredients—broiled Oaxaca string cheese creates texture and flavor impossible to replicate with substitutes. The baked crab enchiladas (S$42) come generously stuffed with fresh crab meat in a rich, complex sauce. The carne asada (S$62), while pricey, delivers on quality with tender, well-marbled beef.
Worth Noting:
This is special occasion Mexican, with prices to match. The vibrant décor and attentive service create an immersive experience that justifies the premium.
Best For: Special occasions, those willing to pay for premium ingredients, date nights
Nixta Mexican Grill & Bar
Location: [Check current location]
Price Range: $$-$$$ (S$30-45 per person)
Nixta distinguishes itself through its commitment to nixtamalization—the traditional process of treating corn with alkaline solution to create authentic masa. Combined with wood-fired grilling, this creates flavors that reach beyond standard Mexican restaurants.
What Sets It Apart:
The duck barbacoa taco (S$17) is rare in Singapore—tender duck slow-roasted with herbs and spices in hoja santa leaves develops deep, complex flavors. The tlayuda de la casa (S$29), resembling a thin-crust pizza with blue corn tortilla base, topped with smoky roasted corn in creamy, cheesy sauce, demonstrates creative excellence rooted in tradition.
Worth Noting:
Happy Hour (weekdays 5-7pm) offers good value on selected items. The wood-fired preparation means some dishes take time, but the results justify the wait.
Best For: Food enthusiasts, those seeking smoky wood-fired flavors, weekday Happy Hour deals
The Fusion Innovators
Vatos Kitchen & Bar
Location: CBD area
Price Range: $$ (S$20-35 per person)
Korean-Mexican fusion sounds gimmicky until you remember that Los Angeles—where this concept originated—has been successfully blending these cuisines for years. Vatos brings that LA street food energy to Singapore with Korean-American owners who understand both cultures intimately.
What Sets It Apart:
The kimchi carnitas fries (S$21) represent fusion done right—braised pork carnitas meet sautéed kimchi, jalapeños, and onions in a mountain of flavor. The galbi short rib tacos (S$25) showcase tender Korean-style marinated beef in Mexican tortillas, proving these cuisines share more common ground than you’d expect.
Worth Noting:
Exceptional value with Taco Tuesdays (S$5 per taco, minimum two), weekday lunch deals (S$14.90), and Happy Hour (3-7pm) with bar bites and drinks at S$10 each. The CBD location makes it perfect for after-work gatherings.
Best For: Office workers, those seeking creative fusion, budget-conscious diners who time their visits right
Afterwit Mexican Tacqueria
Location: [Check current location]
Price Range: $ (Under S$15 for lunch sets)
Muslim-owned Afterwit recently revamped its menu to focus on an innovative concept: corn tortilla tacos resting on a skirt of melted mozzarella cheese. This creative touch elevates the textural experience while keeping prices remarkably affordable.
What Sets It Apart:
The taco platter (S$35) lets you sample all five flavors including an unexpectedly excellent jackfruit mince option for vegetarians. But the sleeper hit is the elotes (S$12)—corn cobs glazed with paprika and maple butter sauce that the chefs call their most underrated dish. They’re right.
Worth Noting:
Weekday set lunches under S$15 make this one of the best value Mexican options in Singapore. The halal certification opens Mexican cuisine to a wider audience.
Best For: Muslim diners, vegetarians (jackfruit option), budget lunches, casual dining
The Established Classics
Piedra Negra
Location: Haji Lane
Price Range: $$ (S$25-35 per person)
Run by the Blu Jaz entertainment group, Piedra Negra offers the complete package: vibrant atmosphere, live music, generous Happy Hour (12pm-8pm!), and solid Mexican food in the colorful heart of Haji Lane.
What Sets It Apart:
The tableside guacamole (S$12.90) prepared with stone mortar and pestle brings theater to your meal. The traditional ceviche (S$15.90) delivers authentic coastal Mexican flavors. But really, the draw is the overall experience—great music, al fresco seating, and frozen margaritas (S$14) that taste like vacation.
Worth Noting:
The extensive Happy Hour (12-8pm with two beers for S$14 or two cocktails for S$20) makes this one of the best value spots for drinks and nibbles in the area.
Best For: Groups, those seeking ambiance and entertainment, Happy Hour deals
Cha Cha Cha
Location: Holland Village
Price Range: $$ (S$20-30 per person)
Operating from the same Holland Village location for over 30 years, Cha Cha Cha represents old-school Singapore Mexican dining at its finest. The longevity speaks to consistency, quality, and understanding what keeps locals and expats returning.
What Sets It Apart:
The shredded beef chimichanga (S$19) exemplifies why classics become classics—perfectly crispy exterior, flavorful filling, no unnecessary complications. The pulled pork quesadilla (S$16) delivers satisfying, well-seasoned comfort. But the real star is the extended Happy Hour with margaritas from S$10 (all day Sunday and Monday, 11:30am-8pm Tuesday-Saturday).
Worth Noting:
The colorful, classic interior and lively atmosphere create a neighborhood restaurant vibe that newer spots struggle to replicate. Service is warm and attentive in that way that only comes from experienced staff.
Best For: Neighborhood dining, margarita lovers, those seeking reliable classics
Margarita’s
Location: Dempsey Hill
Price Range: $$$ (S$35-50 per person)
Possibly Singapore’s oldest Mexican restaurant, Margarita’s occupies a beautiful space in charming Dempsey Hill. The heritage, location, and generous portions have kept it relevant through decades of competition.
What Sets It Apart:
The legendary “Kitchen Sink” burrito (S$28) lives up to its name with chicken, beef, chorizo, and all the toppings—everything but the kitchen sink. The fajitas (S$38) arrive sizzling dramatically, encouraging tableside assembly. Portions are genuinely large; come hungry or plan to share.
Worth Noting:
The Dempsey Hill location offers beautiful surroundings and ample parking, making it ideal for leisurely weekend meals. The margaritas (from S$22) are crafted with care befitting the restaurant’s name.
Best For: Groups, weekend lunches, those seeking generous portions, scenic dining
The Neighborhood Favorites
Sibarita
Location: Thomson
Price Range: $$ (S$20-30 per person)
Tucked away in Thomson, Sibarita proves that excellent Mexican food doesn’t need a trendy location or Instagram-worthy décor. This neighborhood gem focuses on what matters: warm service, hearty food, and prices that encourage repeat visits.
What Sets It Apart:
The crispy barramundi taco (S$15) showcases pristine fish with a crispy crust protecting moist, buttery flesh inside. The Chef’s Special chorizo quesadilla (S$15) delivers cheesy, savory satisfaction. But save room for the loco-cocoa churros (S$6) with thick, rich homemade chocolate ganache—arguably the best churros on this list.
Worth Noting:
The seasonal fusion menu keeps things interesting for regulars while maintaining crowd favorites. The quiet neighborhood setting makes it perfect for relaxed family dinners away from crowds.
Best For: Families, neighborhood dining, those seeking value without sacrificing quality
El Cocinero
Location: Novena
Price Range: $ (S$15-20 per person)
This hole-in-the-wall near Novena MRT punches well above its weight, delivering authentic Mexican flavors at some of the most reasonable prices in Singapore. The attached Mexican grocer selling tortillas, peppers, and hot sauces proves the commitment to authenticity.
What Sets It Apart:
Both the carnitas tacos (S$11) and barbacoa tacos (S$11.50) feature genuinely tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat that defies the low price point. The peach carlotas (S$5) provide a fruity, creamy sweet ending that refreshes without weighing you down.
Worth Noting:
The small space means limited seating, but the food speaks for itself. The attached grocer lets you take Mexican ingredients home to continue the experience.
Best For: Budget diners, those seeking authenticity, takeaway meals, spice enthusiasts
The Party Spots
Senor Taco
Location: [Check current location]
Price Range: $$ (S$25-40 per person, less during Happy Hour)
Senor Taco delivers the full cantina experience—live Latin bands, dance classes, cultural events, and an energized crowd ready to party by 8:30pm. This is Mexican dining as entertainment.
What Sets It Apart:
The one-metre taco sampler (S$48 during Happy Hour, S$74.80 regular) creates instant table drama with five different taco varieties stretched across a meter-long platter. The torta de milanesa (S$18 Happy Hour, S$26 regular) satisfies as a substantial Mexican steak sandwich.
Worth Noting:
Ladies’ Night on Wednesdays with free drinks during Happy Hour. The extensive Happy Hour (5:30-8:30pm) offers significant savings. Come for dinner, stay for the party.
Best For: Groups, parties, those seeking entertainment with their meal, Ladies’ Night
Cafe Iguana
Location: Clarke Quay (Riverside Point), Orchard
Price Range: $$-$$$ (S$30-45 per person)
Cafe Iguana combines stunning Singapore River views (at Riverside Point) with fantastic food, zesty drinks, and excellent service. It’s been a Mexican food favorite for years, particularly for special occasions and celebrations.
What Sets It Apart:
The chimichangas feature beautiful crusts with generous fillings—both the barbacoa beef (S$28) and chipotle prawn (S$28) versions deliver. The tequila chicken (S$28), marinated in tequila and lime juice, brings brightness and depth. But the view from Riverside Point elevates everything.
Worth Noting:
The 100% agave tequila in margaritas creates natural sweetness without artificial additives. Reservations recommended, especially for riverside seating.
Best For: Special occasions, riverside dining, margarita enthusiasts, tourists
The Reliable Chains
Chimichanga
Locations: Little India, Holland Village, Paya Lebar, VivoCity
Price Range: $$ (S$25-40 per person, higher at VivoCity)
Chimichanga has become a household name in Singapore’s Mexican scene, with four outlets offering impressive fare and genuine Mexican hospitality. The VivoCity location features a unique parrilla (grill) section with seafood options.
What Sets It Apart:
The namesake chimichanga—essentially a deep-fried burrito—arrives crispy and satisfying. The shredded ancho beef version (S$18-23.90 depending on outlet) combines everything great about Mexican cuisine. At VivoCity, the wagyu hanging tender carne asada (from S$36.90 for 250g) showcases premium quality with tender beef, confit potatoes, and fried kale.
Worth Noting:
Menus vary slightly between outlets. The VivoCity location commands higher prices but offers unique seafood options. Each location maintains consistent quality and warm service.
Best For: Reliable Mexican food, multiple locations, seafood lovers (VivoCity), families
Guzman Y Gomez
Locations: 20 outlets islandwide
Price Range: $ (S$10-20 per person)
As Singapore’s largest Mexican chain, Guzman Y Gomez brings fast-casual Mexican dining to neighborhoods across the island. While it lacks the ambiance of sit-down restaurants, it delivers on quality, convenience, and value.
What Sets It Apart:
The commitment to fresh ingredients without preservatives or additives at this price point deserves recognition. Burrito bowls (from S$10.30) and salads (from S$10.90) offer healthy options that don’t compromise flavor. The mini bowl portions make it accessible for lighter appetites or budgets.
Worth Noting:
Twenty locations mean you’re never far from a Mexican fix. While it’s fast-casual dining, quality exceeds typical fast food significantly. Perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners.
Best For: Convenience, budget dining, healthy options, quick meals, families
The Specialists
Papi’s Tacos
Locations: Three outlets in central Singapore
Price Range: $$ (S$20-30 per person)
Chef Mauricio Espinoza (Papi) focuses on what he does best: simple, fuss-free Mexican dishes with emphasis on soft-shell tacos. The Tanjong Pagar outlet offers three tacos for the price of two on Taco Tuesdays.
What Sets It Apart:
Papi’s platter (S$69) provides eight tacos across four varieties—cochinita pibil (smoked pork belly), pollo (chicken), pescado (fish), and camarón (shrimp). The fish and shrimp tacos particularly shine. The Holy Trinity (from S$13)—fried corn tortillas, fresh tomato salsa, and avocado dip—accompanies the platter perfectly.
Worth Noting:
Each outlet has exclusive specials, so check menus before visiting. Taco Tuesday deals at Tanjong Pagar offer excellent value.
Best For: Taco enthusiasts, Tuesday deals, central locations, seafood tacos
Super Loco
Locations: Robertson Quay, Customs House
Price Range: $$-$$$ (S$30-45 per person)
Part of the Super Loco Group (which also runs Lucha Loco and Chico Loco), Super Loco offers chic, modern Mexican dining with spectacular views—Singapore River at Robertson Quay or Marina Bay waterfront at Customs House.
What Sets It Apart:
The beef quesadilla (S$18) features generous amounts of tender beef in savory, tangy sauce. The tuna tostadas (S$16) showcase fresh, quality tuna with well-balanced spices and creamy avocado. But the locations steal the show—waterfront dining elevates any meal.
Worth Noting:
If you enjoy Super Loco, explore sister restaurants Lucha Loco (casual coastal Mexican) and Chico Loco (rotisserie chicken with Mexican twist) for variations on the theme.
Best For: Waterfront dining, date nights, groups, those seeking modern Mexican
The East Side Options
Platypus Cantina
Location: East Singapore
Price Range: $$ (S$25-35 per person)
Popular with east-siders, Platypus Cantina blends classic Mexican dishes with local-inspired twists while maintaining a fun, festive atmosphere. The diverse menu includes pasta and grill options for groups with varied preferences.
What Sets It Apart:
The cheesy tomatillo rice with basic protein (from S$21.90) offers choices including pollo asado, carne asada, pork carnitas, or vegetarian options like braised tempeh and miso tofu. The sombrero hat photo opportunity has become a rite of passage for visitors.
Worth Noting:
The expanded menu beyond Mexican classics makes it group-friendly when not everyone wants tacos. The east location provides convenient access for those avoiding the central crowds.
Best For: East-side residents, groups with varied preferences, families, photo opportunities
Lower East Side Tacqueria
Location: East Singapore
Price Range: $$ (S$20-30 per person)
This laid-back bar brings Mexican street food vibes to the east, with a casual setting perfect for watching sports while enjoying flavorful, spicy food and cold beers.
What Sets It Apart:
The pork carnitas quesadilla (S$13.50) and pollo y queso quesadilla (S$14.50) deliver succulent meat with generous cheddar in toasted tortillas. The chicken enchiladas (S$18.50) provide satisfying savory, tangy flavors with varied textures. Hot sauce options span all heat levels.
Worth Noting:
The bar atmosphere and sports viewing make it ideal for casual gatherings. The range of hot sauces caters to spice enthusiasts of all tolerance levels.
Best For: Sports viewing, casual nights out, east-side residents, spice lovers
Final Recommendations by Category
Best Overall Value: Huevos, El Cocinero, Guzman Y Gomez
Most Authentic: Mami’s Tamales, Comida Mexicana, Nixta
Best for Special Occasions: Cafe Iguana, Margarita’s, Comida Mexicana
Best Fusion: Vatos Kitchen & Bar, Lavi Tapas
Best for Groups: Senor Taco, Chimichanga, Platypus Cantina
Best Views: Super Loco, Cafe Iguana (Riverside)
Best Margaritas: Cha Cha Cha, Cafe Iguana, Margarita’s
Best Happy Hour Deals: Piedra Negra, Vatos, Cha Cha Cha
Best for Vegetarians: Afterwit (jackfruit tacos), Guzman Y Gomez, Platypus Cantina
Most Innovative: Lavi Tapas, Nixta, Afterwit
The Verdict
Singapore’s Mexican food scene offers remarkable diversity—from authentic street food to creative fusion, budget-friendly chains to premium experiences. The quality has risen significantly, with many establishments now importing ingredients from Mexico and employing traditional techniques like nixtamalization.
For newcomers to Mexican cuisine, start with reliable classics like Chimichanga or Cha Cha Cha. For those seeking authentic regional dishes, Mami’s Tamales and Nixta deliver experiences difficult to find elsewhere in Southeast Asia. Budget-conscious diners will appreciate Huevos and El Cocinero’s quality-to-price ratios. And for adventurous eaters, Lavi Tapas and Vatos push boundaries while respecting culinary traditions.
The key is matching the restaurant to your needs—casual weeknight dinner, special celebration, budget lunch, or exploratory culinary adventure. With 20+ quality options spanning every corner of Singapore, there’s never been a better time to explore Mexican food in the Lion City.
Pro Tips for Mexican Dining in Singapore:
- Take advantage of Happy Hours—many offer significant savings
- Tuesday taco deals are common and worth timing your visits around
- Reservations recommended for waterfront locations and weekend dining
- Many restaurants have different menus at different outlets—check before you go
- Don’t sleep on the churros and dessert tamales—Mexican desserts deserve more attention
- If you’re spice-sensitive, ask about heat levels before ordering
- Bring friends—Mexican food is meant for sharing and trying multiple dishes
Whether you’re craving authentic tamales, creative fusion tacos, or simply a frozen margarita with a view, Singapore’s Mexican food scene has evolved to offer something for everyone—and it’s only getting better.