Lila Wood-Fired Taqueria: A Genuine Taste of Mexico in Dubai's Culinary Scene

Contrary to prevailing sentiments, I have a deep appreciation for the term 'authentic,' especially when encountering restaurants that genuinely embody this concept in a city offering every conceivable cuisine. Amidst Dubai's array of so-called Mexican establishments, many lean towards Tex-Mex; however, my delight soared upon discovering a truly Mexican experience at Lila Wood-Fired Taqueria on Jumeirah Beach Road, specifically in Umm Suqeim 3 – a homegrown gem. Although unlicensed, a second licensed venue is reportedly in the works for those seeking a boozy experience.

So, what defines Lila's authenticity?

1. Homemade Creations: Everything, from tortillas to tostadas, is meticulously crafted in-house. The use of heirloom corn from Mexican farms ground daily for masa (dough) aligns with the traditions of street food in Mexico City.

2. Oakwood Grilling: The distinctive taste at Lila comes from grilling over oakwood fire, a technique that imparts a unique flavor to their dishes.

3. 'Al Pastor' Spit-Roast: A signature dish at Lila, the 'al pastor' is inspired by the Lebanese influence in Oaxaca, Mexico. While traditionally prepared with pork, Lila adapts with marinated lamb due to Dubai's licensing laws.

4. Compact Menu: Lila offers a concise menu, with wood-fired dishes available from 6 pm onwards and 'al pastor' from 3 pm, encouraging evening visits.

5. Experienced Chef: Chef patron Shaw Lash, with a career focused on Mexican concepts, leads a team with a Spanish-speaking background, contributing to the restaurant's authenticity.

6. Native Ingredients: Lila sources native ingredients, including heirloom tomatoes from Pure Harvest, ensuring freshness and quality.

7. Distinctive Offerings: Departing from Tex-Mex classics, Lila forgoes fajitas, enchiladas, and quesadillas, focusing on authentic Mexican specialties.

One month into its opening, our Friday evening visit for an early dinner showcased Lila's commitment to authenticity. The homemade salsas and guacamole kicked off our meal, with large, rustic tortilla chips setting the tone. Seasonal specials like 'tlacoyos' and spit-roasted lamb tacos impressed with their genuine flavors. The highlight, a grilled whole red snapper, allowed for a Peking duck-style assembly of build-your-own tacos, showcasing the diverse flavors of guajillo chili and coriander marinades.

While the food quality excelled, the presence and engagement of Chef Shaw Lash added a memorable touch. The unpretentious, casual dining atmosphere, combined with a reasonable price point, provided excellent value. While some service aspects require refinement, Lila's potential for becoming a go-to spot for impromptu, authentic Mexican dining is evident. With a promising four out of five FooDiva knife rating, Lila is poised to captivate Dubai's culinary scene.