The Mexican restaurant Tabasco’s is a cosy establishment on the corner of Hafnarstræti and Vesturgata. Tabasco’s offers a selection of famous Mexican dishes – although most of them are influenced by the American tradition of how Mexican food is presented.
We had a Margarita and shared a small plate of potato skins for starters and found both pleasing. In fact, the skins were better at Tabasco’s than in many other restaurants in Iceland. Still, I find four pieces of potato skins for 1000 krónur a bit much. The Margaritas were 1200 each – which is not the most outrageous amount for cocktails, especially since they’re served in proper Margarita glasses and tasted good.
The main courses were not as agreeable. My companion had beef tacos and I had the chicken quesadillas. The beef in the tacos was not satisfactory. It tasted like it was spiced with Season All or some other MSG-infused crap. In a restaurant that charges 2000 krónur for a main course, I’d expect my food not to be drowned in fat but both the tacos and the quesadillas were very greasy, although the quesadillas were better. They came with a side of black beans and more vegetables than the tacos.
There’s no other way to describe the condiments than as an infuriating insult to Mexican cuisine. Tabasco’s serves the worst guacamole I’ve ever had in a restaurant. They should really look up a recipe because what they’re serving barely resembles the authentic version. No chunks, no taste, no nothing. The salsa wasn’t any better. I’d be surprised if I were told it was freshly made, because the taste had the word “can” written all over it. There was something that resembled pico de gallo on top of my quesadillas – but maybe it was just chopped vegetables – I have no idea.
I’m afraid I can’t recommend Tabasco’s for food enthusiasts, but if you don’t know that Mexican food should include cilantro or spicy flavour, this is your place. However I do recommend the drinks and the snacks. They are just fine.
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!
