bahrainthismonth.com | JUNE 2026 TOP CHEFS 60 Chef Ruben Herrera, Head Chef of Margarita Mexicana at Gulf Hotel, discusses heritage, authenticity and bringing Mexican flavour to Bahrain through two distinct dining experiences. Mexican cuisine is rooted in memory for Chef Ruben Herrera. Long before professional kitchens, restaurant reputations and carefully curated menus, his journey began in the warmth of a family kitchen. It was there, watching her cook, that food first became something meaningful. “My culinary journey began in childhood, watching my grandmother cook in her kitchen,” he says. “Those early experiences sparked my interest in food, although it took me longer to realise that cooking was not just something I loved – it was my true passion.” Mr. Herrera’s early professional experience took him through American and Italian cuisine, giving him a strong technical grounding and a wider understanding of kitchen discipline. Yet over time, he felt increasingly drawn back to his own roots. As a Mexican chef, he wanted his food to express not just flavour, but identity. “For me, cooking Mexican cuisine is not only about flavour – it is also about culture, heritage, and showing people what Mexican food truly is,” he explains. At Margarita Mexicana, that sense of responsibility is central to the restaurant’s appeal. Since opening in 2009, the Gulf Hotel venue has built a strong reputation as one of Bahrain’s leading destinations for authentic Mexican cuisine. Mr. Herrera sees his role as both preserving that legacy and keeping it alive for a new generation of diners. “What makes our approach stand out is our commitment to offering authentic food while creating a memorable dining experience for every guest,” he says. “We want people not only to enjoy the flavours of Mexico, but also to feel that they are part of something unique here in Bahrain.” A Different Setting That same identity now extends to Doña by Margarita Mexicana at Time Out Market, although the experience has been adapted for a more relaxed, energetic setting. For Mr. Herrera, the challenge was to retain the soul of the original restaurant while creating something suited to a faster-paced environment. “The menu for Doña was created to suit the more relaxed and fast-paced concept of Time Out Market,” he says. “One of the biggest differences is the direct connection we have with guests.” That interaction matters. At Doña, the team can speak directly with customers, explain dishes and share the stories behind them. It gives the concept a personal rhythm, while still maintaining the flavours associated with Margarita Mexicana. True Mexican Taste Authenticity, for Mr. Herrera, begins with ingredients. Key products are imported directly from Mexico whenever possible, allowing the kitchen to preserve the original character of each dish. Technique is equally important, especially when it comes to methods passed down through generations. “Respecting those traditions is what creates a unique and genuine experience for every guest who visits Margarita Mexicana,” he says. Asked which dish best represents him, Mr. Herrera says: “It is difficult to choose just one dish that represents me as a chef, because Mexican cuisine is incredibly diverse. If I had to select one, I would choose a soft taco made with a corn tortilla and served with a spicy habanero salsa that complements the flavour.” In a dining scene as diverse as Bahrain’s, Margarita Mexicana keeps moving forward without losing its soul thanks to its commitment to quality, flavour and innovation. For Mr. Herrera, every new idea must still return to the same purpose: honouring Mexico, rewarding loyal guests and inviting more diners in Bahrain to discover truly authentic flavour. Roots In Flavour
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