Taste of Mexico: Make your way to Caliente if you’re in the mood for some tasty Central American dishes. Holed up in Knutsford Terrrace, this alfresco eatery serves a surprisingly wide array of delicious Mexican flavors.

Look & Feel: The overall ambience is casual and super cozy with a chic interior and a spacious outdoor terrace that’s perfect for lounging around or enjoying a shisha session with friends.

On the Menu: A long list of appetizers should set the tone — think organic picante Padrón peppers ($68) and refried bean dip ($98), which is served with crunchy corn chips and is great for sharing. For main courses, choose from an equally comprehensive list of classic Mexican platters such as fajitas, tacos, burritos, enchiladas or chimichangas. The restaurant also serves a handful of vegetarian dishes if you’ve sworn off meat, including vegetarian nachos ($98), fajitas ($128) and burritos ($118).

Service: The staff members are really friendly at Caliente, though sometimes they get a little flustered when serving big parties. Just order a few margarita pitchers (from $295) for the table and everything will be okay.

Jeng: The nachos at Caliente are exceptionally good and probably the best dish on the menu, although we are also fond of the savory Taco Don Salvador fish tacos ($108). The serving sizes are huge across the board, so you’ll definitely feel satisfied no matter what you order. If its not already too hot outside, give the sizzling fajitas a try – choose between beef, chicken, shrimp and even veggies (from $128).

Not So Jeng: Next time we will pass on the burrito which was chock-full of ingredients but still somehow bland. Do your best to get seats on the terrace, as the inside tables are not quite as appealing.

Great For: A casual dinner with friends, after work drinks, avoiding the Knutsford Terrace crowds.

FYI: Caliente is located above sister pub Assembly Gastrobar, which is also part of Privé Group.

This writeup was based on an independent tasting. The Loop doesn’t guarantee/sell restaurant review coverage. See our editorial policy here.