Mexicano — Restaurant in Khan Chamkar Mon

Well, well, well, it looks like we have a smoking hot review on our hands, and I'm not just talking about the tacos! We were all set to give this joint a solid four stars for their Taco Tuesday special, but alas, due to our recent dining experience, we're feeling generous with a three-star rating.

Let me set the scene for you: it's 7 pm, we stroll in, and request to sit inside like civilized human beings. Unfortunately, the only two available tables were reserved, so we were relegated to the great outdoors. No biggie, right? WRONG.

Enter the entitled, old hag of a British woman sitting next to us. This classy dame decides it's perfectly acceptable to light up a cigarette, as if we wouldn't notice the pungent odor wafting over. It's like she was trying to audition for the role of a chain-smoking dragon.

Just to clarify, "outdoor" seating was still enclosed on 3 sides. Only the front to the street is open. So, it's not like the smoke could easily escape the immediate area. Also, the shriveled-faced old woman was sitting literally less than 1 meter away from us.

Our dinner experience was quickly ruined, and we were forced to reconsider ordering more tacos, but only if we could sit inside. We made our request to the staff, but were met with a firm "no," as the table was reserved for 8 pm. Come on, guys, it was only 7:30, and we could have easily been finished by 7:45. Do you really think someone is going to show up an hour early for their reservation? Talk about a missed opportunity for more taco sales.

In the end, we decided to cut our losses, paid our bill, and left promptly. And wouldn't you know it, the inside table we had requested was still empty as we departed. If you're looking for a decent taco spot, this place will do the job, but be prepared to take your chances with the outdoor seating and potential...

I arrived in Phnom Penh with Mexicano at the top of my list to try. But several expats I met told me to give it a miss. Some said it's gone downhill and others are upset about the service charge. I decided to go ahead anyway and see what the fuss was all about.

Honestly I was pretty impressed. It's nicely decorated and I was welcomed with some complimentary chips and salsa. Those chips were a little stale, but not too bad. The salsa and other homemade sauces were so good (only missing a spicy option) that I ordered more chips for $2, and those were perfectly fine. Hopefully that's a coincidence and they're not intentionally giving away their older, stale chips.

Food was difficult to choose. Sadly, they don't offer anything a la carte, so you have to commit to a big meal. I went with the Chimichanga. It was awesome. The beef was fabulously tender and marinated in delicious seasonings, and it was topped with an addicted tomato sauce. Tried as I did, I couldn't finish it all.

Margaritas I found a little disappointing; they were small and weak, especially for the price. I tried the Jarritos drink which I liked more.

Overall, I enjoyed the experience. I understand why the locals don't like the service charge. I didn't encounter one anywhere else I visited in Phnom Penh. And the staff, while friendly enough, didn't exactly go above and beyond. For example, I asked my server what was in the hot sauces. He said he didn't know and left it at that. I later realized that the owner was sitting right outside, meaning he could have easily gone and asked her, but opted not to bother. In any case, none of my complaints are really a big deal, and with a few tweaks (more flexible ordering options, fresher chips, stronger margarita options, spicier hot sauce, etc) this place could easily up its game...

Food was authentic and delicious. The portions were very good. BUT...

We had a discussion with the owner regarding bringing your own water. For us is totally normal to bring your own bottle with water (since you anyway need water outside a restaurant and you avoid using more PLASTIC which is all over the place). For the owner normal wss charging for water and selling water as part of his business. He argued that his business depended on that and it is like this in Cambodia.

I waited a week to make this review to calm down, digest, and to explore other restaurants in Cambodia. Although I respect his point, my review is 2 stars because I don't agree with his way.

95% of restaurants in Cambodia offered water. (Dosa Street Kitchen, El Cartel, Aroma, Limoncello, David's Noodle, Friends, segafredo, Coffee Today, etc).

If his business depends on selling water and generating more plastic I don't want to support his business.

He charged a 10% service fee which was no were in the menu. I first thought this was the way in Cambodia but this was the only restaurant with this practice.

I really enjoyed the food and I feel that the owner has passion for the Mexican food. But trying to make small extra money like this is shortsighted and will definitely affect his business in...