If you’ve ever wanted to get acquainted with Latin American food and culture, then this vibrant festival in Dempsey Hill happening this month is a great place to begin. Latinada is the largest street food and music festival of its kind in Singapore, and it’s run by power duo chefs Daniel and Tamara Chavez, behind cult-favourite joints Tinto and Cancita.
The festival is back with a bang this year, and it’s shaping up to be a revelrous three-day experience, set to take place from March 21 to 23 at Canchita. This isn’t chefs Daniel and Tamara’s first rodeo though – Latinada started in 2018, and their vision for the festival has only gotten bigger over the years.
This year’s edition brings a total of 14 Latin American chefs from all around Asia, who will be cooking up a spread of Colombian, Mexican, Peruvian, Argentinian, and Chilean flavours. Some familiar names include Chef Fernando Arevalo of the newly opened Latido, Maribel Colmenares from Mami’s Tamales, and Mauricio Espinoza from Papi’s Tacos. They’ve also got chefs flying down from Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Bali, and Japan.
Latinada will take place across two thematic areas in Canchita – the Inka Room and the Amazon Room. Over at the Inka Room, Latin American staples like ceviche, tostadas, and desserts like coconut and chocolate cakes will be served. Meanwhile, it’s a full on taco party at the Amazon Room, with flavours like beef cheek and chorizo, fish, chicken with avocado mayo, and many more. Other highlights include a sandwich station; a live carving station where you’ll spot a whole hunk of Peruvian roasted pork; and a Tinto favourite – Latino paella by Chef Daniel Chavez himself.
Beyond the food, expect a feast for the senses as well, with live music performances, vibrant decor, and a buzzing atmosphere to boot. Tickets are priced at $35 per adult, inclusive of a $20 redeemable cash voucher. Entries are limited to 500 people a day, so it’s fastest fingers first. Get your tickets here.