Fans of the popular Mexican restaurant brand Chimichanga would’ve probably heard of this by now, but they’ve officially opened in VivoCity.
This 160-seater eatery is their largest outlet to date, and boasts a resort-like interior inspired by the distinct architectural style of Jalatlaco, Oaxaca City in Mexico.
Think stucco walls in hues of delicate pink and rich terracotta hues, complemented by woven seagrass pendant lights and bamboo-adorned ceilings.
If you’d like to sip on margaritas alongside your four-legged friend, head straight for the pet-friendly alfresco terrace that offers waterfront views of the sea (and Sentosa).
While the restaurant is best known for putting a unique Singaporean twist on classic Mexican dishes, with signatures like tacos and chimichangas, this VivoCity outlet stands out with a sensational Sunset Menu.
Available exclusively at dinnertime, the menu draws inspiration from the Pacific Coast of Mexico, showcasing an enticing array of fresh seafood served in sharing portions, perfect for communal dining.
Hit up the Raw Bar and start off with half a dozen of Fresh Oysters (S$28.90), topped with habanero mignonette. We recommend enjoying ’em with Salsa de Habanero Verde, a medium-spicy green hot sauce that can be found at every table.
The refreshing Pescado Espada & Aguacate Ceviche (S$24.90), sashimi-grade swordfish and avocado, is a reliable option, but I’d rather you go for the more unique Hanging Tender Beef & Smoked Duck Tartare (S$24.90), served with tortilla chips.
As much as I can never resist a classic French-style beef tartare, this was really addictive. Dip the chips in the smoky and intensely savoury chunks of beef and smoked duck, and you’re all set for the meal ahead!
Moving on to the Parrilla (grilled dishes), I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into the Wagyu Hanging Tender Carne Asada (from S$36.90 for 250g), comprising cubes of grilled hanger steak, confit potatoes, and crispy kale.
The steak, though juicy and well-marinated, could’ve been a tad more tender. As such, in a surprising turn of events, it was the potatoes that stole the show.
Well, this is a seafood-centric menu after all, so you’re better off sticking to what the ocean has to offer. The El Gran Pescado (S$59.90), whole baked catch of the day, which happened to be seabass during our visit, was served dressed with cabbage, radish, herbs, and bright pops of citrus.
I’ve always preferred whole fish over individual fillets, due to how soft, juicy, and tender the meat gets, and this was no exception. The skin, however, was a bit on the salty side, so we recommend balancing those flavours with a generous squeeze of lime.
If you can only order one main, do not miss out on the Pulpo Asado Al Carbon (S$32.90), grilled octopus leg with butternut squash puree, cut through with lemon confit and caper vinaigrette.
It always pains me to see octopus treated with disrespect AKA cooked till overly chewy, or worse, rubbery. Thankfully, the octopus here was exquisite — delightfully smoky, tender, and perfectly charred around the edges. Definitely the best and most memorable dish of the evening!
Of course, no Mexican fiesta is complete without the all-important booze. Take your pick from 13 varieties of Margaritas (from S$17), available as a glass or a one-litre pitcher.
Regular margaritas on the rocks come in flavours like Moscow Mule (S$19), Spicy Mango (S$19), and Mezcal Orange (S$19), which you can never go wrong with.
The selection of Frozen Margaritas (from S$16) are equally fun, with flavours like Mango Peach (S$19), Banana Strawberry (S$19), and my favourite of the lot, Pina Colada (S$19).
Other standouts on the cocktail menu include Chimichanga’s riff on the Pisco Sour (S$19), made bittersweet with the inclusion of aperol and burnt chartreuse; and the refreshing tequila-based Paloma Fresca (S$19).
Teetotallers have tons of options to choose from, ranging from Aguas Frescas and Horchata to Mexican Soda and Coffee.
So, if you’re in the mood for a hearty Mexican feast, seafood lover or not, a visit to Chimichanga in VivoCity is a must.
Reservations can be made here — just be sure to indicate if you are bringing your pet along.
Chimichanga VivoCity
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đź“Ť VivoCity Singapore, 1 Harbourfront Walk, #01-157/158, Singapore 098585
đź•‘ 12pm–11pm (Sun to Thu & PH), 12pm–12am (Fri, Sat & eve of PH)
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I'm always feelin' either boozy or boujee ✨