Taco meets yakitori at Rodeo Table, a hot new restaurant nestled beneath the Mint Museum of Toys in Singapore.
Forget what you know about Mexican food in Singapore ‘cos the newly opened Rodeo Table is far from typical. Having opened its doors last December, this casual spot quickly piqued my interest with its unique blend of Tex-Mex cuisine and Japanese influences. Tucked away in an inconspicuous basement beneath the Mint Museum of Toys, it has all the makings of the next ‘hidden gem’ in town – yes, I’m bracing myself for the eye rolls. Come along to see if this new restaurant in Singapore is worth a visit!
Rodeo Table review: Details at a glance
Best for: A hidden basement gem for unique Tex-Mex cuisine
Must-try items: Chicken fajitas; Tokyo jambalaya; baby buffalo wings
How much: Appetisers from $8.80; main dishes from $18; cocktails from $12; mocktails from $8
Opening hours: Daily, 12pm to 2.30pm & 5.30pm to 11.30pm
Address: Rodeo Table, Basement of Mint Museum of Toys, 26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382
Descend into a lively hideaway with Tex-Mex charm
Take the flight of stairs next to the Mint Museum of Toys’ entrance, and you’ll find yourself transported to a lively Tex-Mex hideaway. Boring grey concrete walls are traded for a warmly-lit space as you gradually descend into the restaurant.
Picture sprawling floor-to-ceiling bottle displays, black-and-white checkered floors, wooden furnishings, and bold, vintage elements. Coupled with an unmissable wall mount of a bull’s head, it’s a contemporary take on a cowboy paradise.
Seating options are versatile, with both low and high table seats available. I recommend the bar seating if you’re here for quick drinks or fancy a more intimate date-night experience.
Fusion creations for a delicious surprise
Tex-Mex cuisine is all about hearty and bold flavours that trace back to the regional cuisine of the Tejano people. Think fajitas, tacos, buffalo wings and sizzling skillets. I was curious to see how Rodeo Table would incorporate Japanese flair into these comfort dishes, and spoiler: they didn’t disappoint.
I started with a round of baby buffalo wings (from $12.80 for 10 pieces), which I noticed almost every table also ordered. Out of the two flavours I tried – the spiced dried and extra hot – I preferred the former. Coated in an aromatic dusting of spices and chilli, the spiced dried baby wings make moreish starters that are great for sharing. Proceed with caution for the extra hot version, as I could feel my stomach churning after two pieces.
Another signature dish is the chicken fajitas ($24.80), and this easily took first place on the menu. Available in chicken, pork, beef and vegetable variations, the fajitas come served on a sizzling hot skillet and are set ablaze right at your table. So, consider this your reminder to whip out your phone camera when this happens!
Each succulent chicken thigh strip is deliciously marinated and flambeed, giving it an irresistible smoky flavour. In classic fajita-style, have them with the house-made flour tortillas and accompanying sides (salsa, lime and green salsa sauce).
I also enjoyed the Tokyo jambalaya ($23), a fusion take on the classic Louisiana savoury rice dish. Reminiscent of a Japanese yakisoba, this interpretation features stir-fried beef, bean sprouts, onion, curry-flavoured rice, jambalaya sauce and a sunny-side-up egg.
Of course, what’s a Tex-Mex feast without tacos? Choose from the chef’s recommended selection (from $4.80), including Japanese-inspired flavours like yakitori tsukune, bulgogi beef and spicy prawn tempura. Or, customise your tacos (from $28.80 per set) if you’re feeling creative.
Pair these mouth-watering dishes with refreshing frozen margaritas, cocktails, mocktails and tequilas, and you’ve got your Tex-Mex spread sorted.
Saddle up for this new Tex-Mex comfort spot
With its Instagrammable cowboy-esque interiors and bold fusion menu, Rodeo Table hits the mark for a promising new restaurant. I especially like how low-profile the location is. Stroll past the Mint Museum of Toys too quickly and you’ll miss it. But, if you’re privy to this ‘hidden gem’, it becomes a secret hideaway perfect for a cosy group hang-out or date.
PSA: Rodeo Table is offering special opening promotions for January. Enjoy 10 pieces of baby buffalo wings in your flavour of choice for just $1; and one-for-one frozen margaritas (U.P. $18 each) when you dine with a female friend. Complimentary shots will also be served at fixed intervals during dinner.
Getting first dibs on this hot new restaurant while scoring sweet deals? I’ll reckon that’s a win-win situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tex-Mex cuisine?
Tex-Mex cuisine is a fusion of Texan and Mexican food, and is a distinct regional cuisine that originated from the Tejano people living in Texas. Popular Tex-Mex dishes include fajitas, tacos, buffalo wings and skillets.
What makes Rodeo Table different from other Tex-Mex spots?
Rodeo Table stands out from typical Tex-Mex restaurants with its unique, subtle Japanese influences. Look forward to fusion creations such as Tokyo jambalaya, Okinawa taco rice and yakitori tsukune tacos.
What are the must-tries at Rodeo Table?
As a Tex-Mex spot with Japanese influences, you can’t leave without trying fusion dishes like Tokyo jambalaya and Okinawa taco rice. We also recommend ordering the chicken fajitas, a Tex-Mex classic with smoky and juicy chicken.
Are the prices at Rodeo Table affordable?
Rodeo Table is a casual dining restaurant with affordable prices starting from $4.80 per dish. Expect to spend an average of $20 to $30 per person, including drinks.
Where is Rodeo Table located?
Rodeo Table is located on 26 Seah Street, beneath the Mint Museum of Toys in Singapore. It is within a 10-minute walking distance from both Bugis and City Hall MRT stations.
Is Rodeo Table good for group hangouts?
Yes, Rodeo Table is a fantastic pick for group gatherings! It offers a casual yet lively atmosphere, a spacious layout, and a wide selection of shareable plates.
Is Rodeo Table suitable for date nights?
Yes, Rodeo Table is perfect for casual first dates and date nights. For a more intimate setting, we recommend taking a seat at the bar counter, where you can watch the kitchen magic happen.
