SINGAPORE (Oct 2): The Singapore outlet of Korean-Mexican fusion restaurant chain, Vatos Urban Tacos, recently underwent menu revamp from chef and co-founder Sid Kim; one that added an entirely new lineup of novel creations to the already-extensive list of the brand’s classic favourites.
Kim’s innovative spirit in KoMex cooking shines through in new starters like Chicken Mole Enchiladas ($16++, main image), featuring a combination of mole – Mexico’s national sauce – and Korean gojuchang or fermented chilli paste poured over shredded chicken and cheese enchiladas.
Notwithstanding Vatos’ reputation for comfort food and oversized margaritas, veggie- and protein-rich dishes like Mexican Caesar Salad with Grilled Chipotle Prawn ($21++) and Ribeye Steak Fajita Platter ($32++, pictured above) are considered nutritious and healthier options with generous portions, although these are recommended for sharing among groups of three or more to ensure room is left for other indulgences.
The former dish is an overwhelming medley of textures resulting from a mixture of vegetables, alliums, pumpkin seeds and shredded tortilla chips, topped with chipotle marinated grilled prawns – while the latter entrée comprises a sizzling plate of marinated ribeye steak and fajita veggies, served alongside Mexican rice, black beans and a variety of sauces with warm flour tortillas for endless DIY fun.
But the clear favourite was the hearty Kimchi Galbi Grilled Cheese ($16++, pictured above) sourdough sandwich, which showcases a winsome combination of marinated Galbi short rib, made even more delicious with the contrasting flavours of piquant sautéed kimchi and Mexican cheese.
And as much as the debut of these Singapore outlet-exclusive items are bound to please those who relish all things new, there is still nothing like the utter satisfaction derived from guilty pleasures such as the brand’s hallmark Kimchi Carnitas Fries ($19++, pictured above) and Nutella Nachos ($10++). These signature items remain must-orders for newcomers and regulars of Vatos alike, for the sheer joy they bring to the comfort food-lover with very bite.
