Mexican burros are missing from the streets of Bangkok, just like the true taste of Mexican fare. Perhaps the best place to find the poor donkey is at a small cantina tucked within the bustling Thonglor neighborhood. The Missing Burro is the brainchild of two Mexican foodie brothers, Itzco and Tlahui Calva, who are looking to introduce Bangkok to the authentic flavors of their motherland.
Walk in and it almost feels like stepping into an amigo’s house. Shipping containers have been converted into a kitchen and a small basic dining space, decorated with potted cactus plants and colorful skull-shaped KAH Tequila bottles. Take a seat at one of the outdoor tables overlooking a leafy front yard that’s perfect for hosting weekend fiestas.
The menu offers a small yet well-curated selection of authentic Mexican delicacies, many with names that may be unfamiliar to Thai diners. You may feel lost in translation at first but, don’t worry, brief descriptions give a glimpse of what’s to come. Try the sopesito (B180), a dish that comes with pinched dough topped with chicken, crumbled cheese and lettuce. Their flautas (B280) are also worth a try. The rolled-up tortilla is filled with pan-fried, marinated chicken and topped with lettuce salad, crumbled cheese and tomatoes. Our favorite is the carnitas (B280), a stand-out dish with tender pulled pork simmered in lard, beer and spices, and placed on of top of a soft corn tortilla.
The dessert is also top-notch. End your meal with the tantalizing sweet chimichanga (B160), a deep-fried burrito filled with chopped pineapples simmered in red wine sauce.
The Missing Burro also offers interesting Mexican cocktails. Opt for the beer-cocktail, michelada (B180) or the refreshing almond-based horchata (B80), which is also available with rum (B280).
