Over the weekend, Hubs and I made a trip to Bluewaters – this time to check out Puerto 99<\/a><\/strong>, a recently opened Mexican restaurant.\u00a0 While the timing on my beloved Google Maps wasn’t entirely accurate, the team were friendly enough to let us in and show us to a seat.\u00a0 As Dubai tipped towards summer, we decided to sit inside, as there was plenty of natural light, and views across to a bustling Dubai Marina.\u00a0 With a modern take on Mexican, the fit out is similar to the now-closed Peyote (which is a shame, because from a disappointing start, they got better and it was a reliable brunch spot… I digress).<\/p>\n As we reviewed the menu, to begin, we’re served a small plate of tostadas with two kinds of salsa (one milder, but both delicious).\u00a0 We then jumped straight in with a large serving of Guacamole<\/em>, AED75, made with Mexican Haas avocados.\u00a0 It’s made fresh and was a generous portion, easily enough for four people (although we do our best to make a dent in mass of avocados).\u00a0 We also were served up the slightly chewy Queso Fundido<\/em>, AED80, with freshly made corn tortillas.\u00a0 Of the two, I think I would only order the guacamole again, and wished the queso was a bit creamier.\u00a0 Perhaps it’s my U.S. upbringing, but I like my queso super melty.\u00a0 \u00a0I’m also not sure if the soft tortilla is the best match for the dish.\u00a0 To go with our starters, we ordered cocktails, and the ho<\/span>usemade Margaritas were truly phenomenal.\u00a0 The Tommy’s Margaritas<\/em>, AED55, was made with agave instead of triple sec, and imported Mexican tequila.\u00a0 This drink was everything I was looking for, and the margaritas were my favorite thing off the menu during our visit.\u00a0 As part of our starters, to split, we try on the many Ceviches<\/em> offered — this one made with octopus, and was wonderfully tender and bright.\u00a0 All the marks, and a large portion for AED100.\u00a0 Hubs happily finished most of the dish for us.<\/p>\n For our mains, I decide on Tuna tacos<\/em>, AED80, while Hubs opted for Barbacoa, <\/em>AED80.\u00a0 The tuna turned out not to be my favorite flavoring, but I think I’m losing something in the marinade or the cook of the protein, and if returning, would most likely place an order for another dish instead.\u00a0 Hubs was happy with his Barbacoa, but we’re both reminded of how different the pricing would be in our home town.\u00a0 In case it’s not offered, besides the basket of bottled hot sauces, Puerto 99 makes their own delicious varieties, which are well worth asking for.\u00a0 My favorite hot sauce isn’t too spicy, with heavy garlic undertones (that goes on pretty much everything), while Hubs sweats through the mighty Red Baron.\u00a0 As we’re running out of room, we don’t get to order the Coconut Shrimp that I have my eye on (and would make a return trip to try).<\/p>\n Of course, we are incapable of leaving a Mexican restaurant without ordering Churros<\/em>, AED55.\u00a0 As with some of the other dishes in the afternoon, I find the pricing a tad high, but the team delivers the deep-fried dough and sauces we’re expecting.\u00a0 With our dessert, we also order a last round of drinks.\u00a0 It’s the Mai Tai, AED60<\/em> for me, and the signature Honey Fashion<\/em>, AED50 for Hubs (which comes with a bit of a show).<\/p>\n I’ll be honest, on this little man-made island, Alici<\/a> is still far and away my favorite restaurant (The London Project<\/a> and Hell’s Kitchen were both average places, at best).\u00a0 I’ll also reiterate that Meeras has some real issues around signage at Bluewaters.\u00a0 Guests should never have to search for outlets, which I constantly find myself doing.\u00a0 I realize this is not the fault of the venues, but if I were a restauranteur, I would be a bit motivated to ensure my potential guests could easily find my outlet.\u00a0 On a side note for Puerto 99, I’d also love to see local water available instead of expensive Voss.<\/p>\n Would I go back to Puerto 99?\u00a0 I would definitely go back for the margaritas.\u00a0 I also found the service personable and the soundtrack an upbeat addition to the restaurant.\u00a0 As much as we enjoyed the dishes at Puerto 99, La Tablita<\/a> remains firmly at the top of our Mexican food list in Dubai.<\/p>\n Who is Puerto 99 best for?\u00a0 Those in need of authentic Mexican food.\u00a0 A great afternoon spot for a few drinks when the weather’s nice.<\/p>\n A to Za’atar was a guest of Puerto 99.\u00a0 Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.<\/em><\/p>\n