Notes:
- A broad menu filled with dishes that can be easily shared amongst friends
- Not suitable for people who can’t take spice
Details
Address: 275 Thomson Rd, #01-45, Singapore 307645 (Tucked away within the building proper)
Opening Hours: 10am to 9pm Daily
Estimated Cost per person: S$12 for a main + a drink
Experience at El Cocinero
If your idea of a comfort meal consist of a double Mcspicy and washing it down with a shot tabasco, this is probably your spot. Heavy flavours offset tucked within tortilla wraps and a nod to greens within the toppings. A number of hot sauces are found on the side if you wish to introduce a note of sourness and heat to cut the richness of the amalgamation of cheese and meat before you ram it into your mouth to involuntary noises of satisfaction.
Each of the mains and hefty sides average around $10 with the full menu available here.
Mains
Tacos
No frills, just the meat of choice, a simple sauce and some greens on the side, all on a tortilla. The pulled meats (Barbacoa/Carnitas) were tender from the slow cooking process without being dry from being over-cooked.
Quesadillas
If you want a taco that’s been glued shut with cheese in a crisp toasted tortilla, the quesadilla is your go-to. They don’t skimp on the cheese either, using El Mexicano brand cheese that’s available for purchase as well. This makes for an all-round satisfying savoury dish.
Burritos are available if you wish to get a heavier meal as the beans and rice will be sure to fill you up.
Sides
The Jalapeno Poppers and Hot Wings are must-tries as sides.
Stuffed with cheese before being breaded and chucked into the deep-fryer, the Jalapeno Poppers are irresistible, and you’ll go through the whole plate without knowing.
The hot wings, on the other hand, will let you know of their presence. Freshly fried and tossed in the Valentina Sauce, each wing brings both pain and pleasure to the table. The blend of hot, spicy, and sour brought by the sauce promises a depth of flavour beyond that of plain sourness, a common feature of hot sauces. Feel free to add a dab of the ghost pepper sauce if you wish to challenge yourself. Do note that the nearest washroom is approximately 30 metres away.
To quench the burn, a selection of Mexican drinks are available. The Horchata is a creamy rice beverage with a hint of cinnamon. Jarritos brand of sodas are also up for grabs.
Ambiance and Location
The weakest link in this hole in the wall, El Cocinero is tucked away in the midst of a building fronted by bars, with tuition centres for neighbours. Casual tables and chairs are placed by the corridor with the sauces and serviettes laid out. Ventilation is minimal if you end up in the corner seat.