Restaurant review: Señor Pico

A side of winter beachside breeze with a view of a beautiful skyline is all we need for the holiday season. The Palm West Beach in Jumeirah is slowly turning into that new favourite spot. I was looking to indulge in some casual and delicious ’Tex Mex’ bites which took me to Señor Pico. Dubai’s first restaurant to dish out Mexican-Early Californian cuisine, Señor Pico brings a refreshing taste of modern Mexico to the Palm. The’ Señor Pico’ restaurant concept was first established in San Francisco by “Trader” Vic Bergeron in 1964. Specialising in early Californian/Mexican cuisine and signature cocktails, Señor Pico was inspired by Bergeron’s travels to Mexico, where he explored the culture, researching recipes, local ingredients and cooking methods resulting in mouth-watering dishes that are true to their Mexican heritage. With a lovely view of the Dubai Marina skyline, this restaurant epitomises everything Mexican — bright colours, lively music, Instagrammable interiors, relaxed atmosphere and a vibrant Mexican vibe. The casual seating, starry lanterns and the multicoloured fish ornaments hanging from the ceiling catch your fancy immediately.

The cuisine at Señor Pico offers your typical Mexican classics. From hearty burritos, special tacos to signature crispy cheese quesadillas, dining at Señor Pico is a true exploration of Mexican-American cuisine. Our starters included their scrumptious Mexican nibbles. The crunchy corn tortillas served with dollops of guacamole and salsa sauce was certainly a fiesta to begin the meal. The fried tacos filled with potatoes, coriander, topped with Cotija cheese and chipotle was delicious and a must-try. If you love ceviche, this is the place! The signature Pico’s shrimp ceviche had chilled shrimp tossed with cucumber, coriander, tomato, red onion and lime juice. It had a fresh, light and distinct flavour. For the mains, we ordered cheesy quesadillas, beef burritos and chicken tacos, all equally wholesome and lip-smacking.The Pico chicken tacos is a stand-up- marinated chicken with adobo, cumin, coriander lime juice. Indeed mouth-watering!

We couldn’t miss out on churros in an authentic Mexican restaurant. The freshly baked churros with Nutella dip was the perfect combination. With impeccable service and amazing food, if you are looking for great Mexican food in a beautiful beachside location, Señor Pico is your place to go.

Taste (4/5): The lively and vibrant eatery boasts of Mexican-Early Californian cuisine where every dish was fresh and well-seasoned. A number of key ingredients for the food are sourced from Mexico giving you a flavourful Mexican culinary experience.

Ambience (5/5): Señor Pico is located at the prime beachfront side of Palm West beach. Guests can enjoy idyllic sunsets, all backed by amazing views of the Dubai Marina skyline, lively rhythms and relaxed Mexican vibes. In addition, the restaurant is pet-friendly and with the weather being fantastic, it makes a perfect setting for a relaxed family meal by the beach. Be it flip flops, casual shorts or even fancy heels and a dress – everyone is welcome in Señor!

Service (4/5): They have Mexican staff and chefs with great communication skills. They were extremely helpful, friendly and efficient, making the overall experience worthy.

Presentation (4/5): The food was very well-plated, neatly arranged and appetising enough to tempt us to try the dishes.

Value for money (5 /5): If you’re in the mood for fresh and fuss-free Mexican food at affordable price with a casual beach vibe, Señor Pico should be on your list. A meal for two here will cost you Dh300 approximately without alcohol. For the kind of location, ambience and food, it's pocket-friendly with dishes like shrimp ceviche (Dh50), fried tacos (Dh53) and chicken tacos (Dh50).

• Food and Dining
• Dubai