Carmina Latin Cuisine & Bar, nestled on Sukhumvit Soi 20 in Bangkok, is a vibrant gem that brings the bold flavors and lively energy of Latin America to the city. It’s a place we keep coming back to—and for good reason. This time around, we had the pleasure of trying Chef Joe’s special Mexican menu, created in celebration of Carmina’s anniversary.
As expected, the dishes delivered. While the regular menu already impresses with favorites like the zesty Ceviche Classico, juicy Pollo a la Brasa, and richly spiced Lomo Asado, this evening was all about Mexico. And trust us—nothing disappointed.
Now, let’s take a look at what hit our table.
We started off with Ceviche de Corvina – seabass in a citrus marinade, served with crispy sweet potato and a smooth sweet potato crème.
Next up was the Ensalada Cremosa de Maíz –a creamy sweet corn salad tossed with fresh jalapeños for a gentle kick, finely diced red onions, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant cilantro, all brought together with a rich, tangy ranch dressing. A perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and refreshing.
Now onto some of the mains we enjoyed…
Then came the Birria de Cabra tacos – tender, slow-cooked goat served in warm corn tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro, red onion, and a sprinkle of cheese. The birria is simmered in a rich, flavorful broth that adds depth without being overly greasy or too saucy. It’s a beautifully balanced take on a classic—bold, comforting, and not too heavy. My hubby’s favorite of the night, hands down.
Next up was the Tlayuda – a Mexican-style pizza that totally surprised me. Now, I’m not usually a pizza gal, but this one was right up my alley. A crispy, baked tortilla served as the base, layered with creamy refried beans, smoky chorizo, succulent shrimp, melted cheese, and a vibrant pico de gallo. The final touch was a drizzle of tangy salsa that brought everything together perfectly. It was the ideal balance of flavors and textures—crispy, savory, and a little bit spicy—just how I like it.
Next up were the Albóndigas Latinas con Arroz – Latin-style pork meatballs that were an absolute flavor explosion. These succulent meatballs were simmered in a tangy, spicy red sauce that struck the perfect balance between heat and richness, with a depth of flavor that lingered long after each bite. The meat was tender and juicy, packed with the kind of seasoning that only Latin cuisine can deliver. They were served alongside your choice of red or green rice – each option offering its own distinct, aromatic profile. The red rice was slightly smoky with a hint of cumin, while the green rice had a fresh, herbaceous note, perfectly complementing the bold flavors of the meatballs. This dish was comfort food with a fiery twist, bursting with taste in every bite.
To wrap up the meal, we had Leche Frita – a sweet, indulgent treat that perfectly finished off the evening at Carmina. This dish, which traces its origins back to northern Spain, is unlike anything I’ve had before. It’s a rich, creamy milk custard that’s coated in a light batter and then fried to golden perfection. The result is a crispy, caramelized exterior that gives way to a smooth, velvety interior. Lightly dusted with cinnamon and sugar, each bite was a comforting balance of sweet and creamy with just the right amount of warmth. It was the perfect way to end the meal—decadent yet delicate, and a true taste of Spanish tradition.
Alongside this delightful dessert, we also enjoyed Maya Pistola Agavepura, Asia’s first premium, aged 100% agave spirit made in India. This unique spirit is crafted from wild Agave Americana, which gives it a natural, additive-free character unlike any other. The Pistola surprised us with its complexity, featuring a delicate floral aroma and refreshing citrusy notes, while subtle spices lingered on the palate. Its smooth, sophisticated profile paired beautifully with the sweetness of the Leche Frita, offering the perfect balance of flavors to cap off the meal. Maya Pistola Agavepura is a truly remarkable drink, offering a refined and authentic experience for those seeking something truly unique.
Let me give you a glimpse of the restaurant and its ambiance.
The ambiance is a dynamic blend of Latin warmth , creating a welcoming space where guests can embark on a flavorful journey.
The interior design is carefully crafted, with rich brown mahogany as the base, complemented by patterned upholstery in shades of red, green, and purple. This color scheme brings an elegant yet cozy vibe that enhances the dining experience.
To top it off, the lively energy of Latin culture is brought to life through live Latin music performances, filling the space with rhythmic tunes that encourage guests to unwind and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
The Chef
I had the pleasure of meeting Chef Joseph Dabagh—Carmina’s culinary force. Born in Lebanon to a Syrian father and Thai mother, Chef Joe brings a rich cultural heritage and a bold, flavor-driven approach to the kitchen.
His journey has taken him from Syria and Dubai to Bangkok and Phuket, with standout roles including Sous Chef at the renowned Al Safadi in Dubai and Head Chef positions across Thailand. He’s earned accolades for both his Latin and Middle Eastern cuisine—named one of Phuket’s top 10 Latin chefs and southern Thailand’s best for Levantine flavors.
If you’re more into visual feasts…
Don’t miss our video from Carmina—get a glimpse of the venue, the dishes, and all the delicious details!
I’m hungry. Where is it ?
We would recommend making a reservation. Book Here
Keep up to date with their specials by following their official Facebook page or Instagram page.
Location: Milli Malle, 66/4 Sukhumvit 20 Alley, Khwaeng Khlong Toei, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110
I want to hear from you!
Should you decide to experience Carmina, I’d love to hear your feedback in the comment section below, or via message on either the Chow Traveller Facebook page or Chow Traveller Instagram (and feel free to like/follow these pages if you want to learn about more about the foodie gems I find). However you choose to reach out, I’d love to hear from you!
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