Singapore’s Mexican food scene may not have had any shockwaves over the past 12 months, but like a good habanero, it was a slow-building burn: Mex Out and Vatos Urban Tacos expanded their empires, everyone suddenly became privy to what a mescal margarita was and Super Loco pulled out all the stops for its gorgeous (though still party-forward) second branch at Customs House. Here’s where you should be getting your tacos and margaritas.

Barrio by Mex Out

Mex Out expanded with a fuller menu at its Barrio concept, which now has a branch in VivoCity, too. Tacos, burritos and burrito bowls aside, there are tortas like the chili cheeseburger. #01-14/15 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Rd.

El Mero Mero

This fancy spot does premium tacos with fillings like Kurobuta pork al pastor and tiger prawn tempura with coconut, mango and cabbage. Mains like the NZ ribeye and Atlantic grilled octopus are fired up in the Josper grill. Don’t miss their mezcals, and Mexican-leaning signature cocktails. #01-20 Chijmes, 30 Victoria St.

Guzman Y Gomez

GYG has opened several branches, the latest at Tanjong Pagar Centre. They keep the menu simple: burritos, burrito bowls, tacos. Topping options include chipotle adobo pulled pork, garlic-lime fish, etc. #B1-07 Chevron House, 30 Raffes Pl.

Muchachos

They’ve got a make-your-own taco concept that lets you pick your favorite salsas, proteins and carbs. They also whip up tasty burrito bowls and quesadillas. Pair your meal with a side of tortilla chips and a chilled bottle of Jarritos soda to wash it all down with. 22 Keong Saik Rd.

Piedra Negra

Haji Lane’s most colorful restaurant is the go-to place for Day of the Dead parties. Tacos aside, chef Leo Munoz serves some unusual dishes like the cactus salad and the plantain-stuffed habanero peppers. 241 Beach Rd.

Senor Taco

Also located in Orchard Towers, this no-frills place with its energy is one of our favorite spots for affordable margaritas. Tacos are the big draw here, served in soft corn tortillas, though there are some hearty enchiladas and quesadillas, too. #01-12 3D River Valley Rd.

Super Loco

We have an eternal soft spot for this stylish and bustling riverside joint, which serves not just elevated tacos, but snacks like elotes, tamarind-ancho pork ribs and mains like chicken enchiladas. Don’t miss the huevos rancheros at brunch. #01-13 The Quayside, 60 Robertson Quay

Vatos Urban Tacos

This franchise first opened at the fancy South Beach, and its claim to fame is Mexican food with a Korean twist—KoMex, if you will—very LA. Try the galbi tacos and the kimchi carnitas fries. And if you prefer your tacos in more casual climes, they have a kiosk at Timbre+. South Beach, 36 Beach Rd.