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MAGAZINE, May 2002
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Bonita
Senorita
25-9, DaYe Rd. (On Soho pedestrian street)
(04) 2310-8699
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YOUR RATING & REVIEW | VIEW
VISITOR RATINGS & REVIEWS
By C. Donovan Smith Translated by
Sharon Yang
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When
ex-Compass restaurant writer, veteran manager/chef and San
Diego native John Chislett announced the opening of his own
restaurant, we knew we were in for a treat. Naturally, Bonita
Senorita does not disappoint.
John opened
his eatery on the previously-dead Soho pedestrian street (half
a block down from the corner of DaYe Rd. & JingCheng St.)
and helped bring the entire area back to life. The street
is now a happening location in it's own right, with PJ's Cafe
at one end, the newly-opened Murray's Tavern Irish pub and,
of course, Bonita Senorita at the far end.
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Serving up his trademark Mexican cuisine, Bonita
is now a regular on many dining itineraries. The quality starts
from the ground up, with almost everything made from scratch, including
the refried beans, the nacho chips and even the chili powder used
as seasoning. Although John has been a professional cook since he
was 15, he hasn't stopped improving his craft. The California-style
Mexican food that made his reputation in Taichung has been further
improved recently by the introduction of American Southwestern techniques
and the creative input of fellow chef extraordinaire Fred of fM
restaurant.
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My favorites include the Ultimate Nachos (NT$160),
Carne Asada Burrito (NT$250) and the Chicken Fajitas (NT$250).
Other favorites include the Vegetarian Enchiladas (NT$180)
and, of course, the Tacos (NT$180). For those of us who like
our food spicy and those who don't like it spicy at all, Bonita
offers the diner a choice on how spicy their salsa is. Also
popular are Bonita's Thai dishes and the NT$250 weekend brunches,
featuring blueberry pancakes, huevos rancheros, omelets and
more.
Many, however, come (or stay after dinner)
for the atmosphere. With tables outside and a friendly bar
area, it is a nice place to spend the evening hanging out.
Some like to sit in the pagoda-shaped pavilion out front,
and others like sitting inside to peruse the mural of a traditional
Chinese market on the wall--the decor is fun; though not particularly
Mexican.
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Singha Beer from Thailand, priced at a reasonable
NT$100, is another draw for the evening crowd. Mixed drinks are
available, including real margaritas, for NT$150.
Whether you come for the food or simply pass through
while enjoying the newly revived Soho street, it is a good bet you'll
enjoy Bonita Senorita.
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