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Sombrero offers a taste of Mexico in the heart of Jakarta. (Photo courtesy of Sombrero)
Trying a new cuisine from an unfamiliar country is always a step into the unknown. Choosing from the strangely named items on the menu and seeking to muster a sense of authority when placing an order can make it an intriguing experience. But sometimes it’s a case of love at first bite.
Indonesian restaurateurs are enthusiastic in bringing a variety of global cuisines to our shores. Some hit and some miss, but all are eagerly sampled.
In the United States, Mexican cuisine is popular, probably because they are neighbors and also because the food is so good. Tacos are almost as familiar as sandwiches, as are quesadillas and burritos.
Sombrero, a restaurant that recently opened at Central Jakarta’s Grand Indonesia Shopping Town, aims to give Indonesians a taste of Mexico. The classic sombrero is a wide-brimmed hat that is a staple feature in old Western movies set south of the Rio Grande.
The restaurant — which carries the slogan “The Twist of Mexico” — seeks to introduce Indonesians to the tastes and sensations of Mexican food, giving them an experience already common in the West.
Sombrero has put a lot of thought into its food, and guests are offered a warm and comfortable atmosphere in the restaurant to enjoy it.
Mexican cuisine is as complex as its Indonesian counterpart. Its variety of spices and other ingredients evoke a familiar tangy taste.
Most Mexican food sits nicely on the Indonesian palate, aiding Sombrero’s aim of introducing Mexican cuisine to Indonesians.
“We offer a Mexican restaurant with the concept of casual dining in a fun environment,” said Michelle E. Surjaputra, the chief executive of Sombrero founder Michelindo Food International.
“We hope that with the authentic Mexican dishes and the modern Mexican design, it will make you feel like you’re in Mexico.”
Sombrero offers a refreshing dining experience that entices your taste buds and also offers fun and excitement.
Soups, salads, nachos, tapas, churros and yummy mocktails make for a diverse dining experience.
“I love the food here,” said Reza Rahardian, an Indonesian actor.
“I hope that Sombrero will always be a go-to hangout spot, and they will keep the wonderful food quality.”
The restaurant doubles as a cafe and hopes to establish itself as a place to socialize.
Early positive reviews have led to a steady stream of customers. Michelindo has a track record of successful restaurants; it’s BonChon Chicken Indonesia has established itself as a popular choice.
At Sombrero, the interior has a modern Mexican look, with smooth surfaces and wagon wheels on the wall. The staff don traditional clothing — yes, including sombreros — and the food is presented with a contemporary and south-of-the-border flair.
“There aren’t many Mexican-themed restaurant in Indonesia, especially in Jakarta, so we’re very confident that Sombrero can carve out its own niche in the market,” said Michelindo’s Michelle, herself a successful young entrepreneur.
The restaurant’s signature dishes include Taco Macho, Fuerro Burrito, Quesadilla, Dip’N Wings and Chi Mi Changa.
These dishes are presented tapas style, reminiscent of modern Mexican restaurants such as Taqueria in Westbourne Grove, London — a place also famous for refusing to serve guacamole.
Although not a large space, Sombrero is comfortable enough for casual dining.
Sombrero
Grand Indonesia Shopping Town
3A Floor West Mall
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