As folks who never gatekeep (we do just the opposite), we’ve got a hidden gem we’d like to taco ’bout, especially for those who just want to unwind over good Mexican grub and ice-cold drinks.
Enter Lavi Taco, a casual Mexican taqueria literally located on top of a hill, in the heart of Pearl’s Hill Terrace near Chinatown MRT.
Make the trek up the long flight of stairs (it’ll be worth it, I promise), and into the building, which leads to an open-air courtyard strewn with colourful murals, faux statues, and wooden benches. Yes, alfresco seating is your only option.
First, order a round of cocktails, or “kultails” from Kult Yard, before taking your pick from the menu, which features traditional Mexican flavours, but with a contemporary twist.
We recommend starting off with Nachos (S$16). They’re fairly straightforward, comprised of corn tortilla chips topped with jalapeno pickles, accompanied by salsa verde, pico de gallo (a less liquidy type of salsa), and guacamole.
It’s a starter you’d want to have on hand, to snack on throughout the evening, especially if you plan to order more drinks. There’s also a Loaded (S$16) version that happens to be both vegetarian and gluten-free.
In the spirit of inclusivity, those who don’t eat meat will be pleasantly surprised to know that Lavi Taco offers quite a number of plant-based options.
Take the Pulled Mushroom Taco (S$18), for example. What we thought was pulled brisket turned out to be pulled mushrooms that were smoky, mildly spicy, and really meaty-tasting, with only the slightest hint of soy.
This “pulled meat” paired perfectly with each and every element — red cabbage, cheese, pico de gallo, sour cream, salsa verde, and cilantro on flour tortillas.
And of course, you can find tacos like Grilled Chicken (S$19 for 3pcs), Garlic Prawn (S$23 for 2pcs), and what I was most excited about, the hard-to-find Birria Taco (S$25 for 2pcs).
I practically dream about birria tacos (and salivate over videos on TikTok) on the daily — it’s one of those foods you try once and never forget.
Lavi Taco’s rendition, composed of slow-cooked oxtail and brisket folded into tortillas with melted cheese and a side of spicy birria broth for dunking, was rich, aromatic, and packed with flavour. My only gripe? Way too little cheese.
Mexican cuisine is best enjoyed in a larger group, which also makes it a no-brainer when it comes to ordering the Taco Meat Platter (S$69 for 2 pax, S$129 for 3–4 pax).
Don’t be put off by the hefty price tag; this platter comes heaving with a trio of flame-grilled marinated chicken thigh, Angus steak, and succulent Argentinian prawns (our favourite of the lot, topped with jalapeno pickles and mango salsa).
There’s also grilled vegetables, red cabbage, lime wedges, tortillas, and an assortment of zesty condiments like pico de gallo, sour cream, and chipotle mayonnaise for you to DIY your own tacos and try a little bit of everything. Messy, but very fun to eat.
All things considered, the tasty tacos, extensive options, and laidback vibes will probably keep you coming back. I can’t wait to return for the birria tacos, that is, if I can request for extra cheese.
Wanna start making plans with your friends? Reservations can be made here.
Lavi Taco
Instagram | Website
???? 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace, #01-54, Singapore 168976
???? 5pm—9.30pm (Wed to Sun), Closed on Mon & Tue
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Photos by Christabel Tan
I'm always feelin' either boozy or boujee ✨