Sandias literally translates to Watermelon but it's not fruits that they serve, its Mexican at its best. The watermelon slice represents the 3 colours of the Mexican flag as well as a happy smile. This quaint restaurant is located at Plaza Damansara in Damansara Heights. Not exactly prime meat in real estate but there's ample parking and you won't be stuck in a jam on your way to dinner. Sandias doesn't have a very extensive menu but the listed items sound mouth watering and tastes absolutely phenomenal.

• The Vibe
  Sandias is a combination of elegance and ease. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by the bright colours that make up their walls. The yellow and blue is particularly striking but it gives the restaurant a modern and somewhat artsy feel. The long wood panels that make up the floor and the whites amidst the bright colours is particularly soothing to the eyes and adds a homely feel to Sandias. The interior itself is truly a work of art and the food is a reflection of that.

• The Food
  If there's one thing Mexican's are famous for, it's their vibrant delights in both taste and colour. The Ceviche (RM22) is one of those dishes that mixes a plethora of ingredients and it is light and refreshing. Small cubes of Dory fish are marinated in lime juice. If you're not a fan of lime then you should stay away from this dish as it is bursting with lime flavour. It is served with tomato, onion, cilantro, green olive salsa and a touch of chili. With so many different flavours in one mouthful it's hard to keep track of what is what. The Albondigas (RM18) is also an excellent dish to start off with but its not for the light hearted. This beef and vegetable meatball is served in a mild tomato sauce flavoured with spearmint, oregano and chipotle chili. The chili is an absolute treat if you're a fan of spicy food. If not, request for the chili to be left out and you'll get juicy and tender meat balls that almost mel ts in your mouth.

  The mains don't sound as attractive as the starters but its definitely worth a try. The Barbacoa e Cordero (RM38) is a chunk of lamb that is marinated in Sandias' very own ‘secret sauce'. We tried to pry the ingredients of the secret sauce out of the owner and all we could get was various types of chilies, onions and garlic. The lamb cutlets are charbroiled and its natural juices remain locked inside. Do not forget to make full use of the secret sauce as it compliments the lamb very well. The Pollo a la Castellana (RM25) is another exotic dish that shouldn't be missed. An imposing quarter chicken is sautéed, braised and topped with a rich full bodied sauce of nuts, fennel and dried chili seeds. All we can say is that the end result is interesting and exotic.

  Do not leave without trying their beautifully created desserts. The Peritas en Salsa de dos Chocolates is a true success. Poached pears are bathed in a thick chocolate sauce and it is accompanied by a scoop of ice cream. Diabetics be warned as this dish is enough to give you a sugar high that would last a week. Nonetheless, hats off to the chef for this phenomenal dessert.

• The Service
  Service staff at Sandias is at a minimal. There's not much need of an army of waiters as the restaurant is pretty modest in size. Nevertheless, your needs are promptly attended to by the hardworking and friendly staff. There's no hovering or any premature clearing of tables from the waiters and food is served generally quick.

SD Food Advisor's take on Sandias
Kuala Lumpur might be in some desperate need of Mexican restaurants and Sandias definitely succeeds in providing good authentic Mexican food. Challenge your palates with their wide variety of ingredients and you might just be pleasantly surprised. Food is reasonably priced and you'll probably need a mere RM80 for a full 3 course meal. With such colourful and delicious food, as well as the charming atmosphere, Sandias is definitely on the top of our list of Mexican restaurants in KL.