0199B: In Search of Mexican Food



So after watching the Repertory Philippines staging of 4000 Miles, we ended up getting a quick dinner over at Chihuahua. We had only eaten there once before and it wasn't an entirely unpleasant experience, although it was definitely on the pricier side. It just amused me how the restaurant repeatedly quoted various reviews stating that the place has the best burritos in Metro Manila when I'm really not sure that's the case. At the very least, they're very filling, although I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that they load their burritos with a lot of rice.

Then again, it's hard to say whether one can get a truly "authentic" Mexican food experience in Metro Manila since it depends on how you define your frame of reference for Mexican food. I mean there's super authentic Mexican food whose origins tie back to Mexico itself and you have weird offshoots like how Mexican food in California is different from Mexican food in Texas.

I have to admit that my context tends to tie back more to California since we lived there for a few years. And maybe that's why Mexicali sort of appeals to me more, but even I know that it's hardly an example of what a great burrito should be. It's still worlds better than Taco Bell, which is just crazy fast food that cannot possibly be Mexican.

I'm trying to remember the rich flavors I experienced during that one business trip to Los Angeles. You could get really good Mexican food just about anywhere - I totally support the notion that some of the best tacos can be bought out of those trucks that park on the side of the road. And folks can't quite capture that same taste experience here without first trying to charge and arm and a leg for it for some reason.

And yet I'm still burping beans right now.

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