Shoreditch, Mexican Restaurant Guide

“For a large chain, they still do pretty much unbeatable Mexican fusion fare”, say fans of these “busy and atmospheric” street-food cafés, now with 11 London branches and three others around the UK. That said, there are also some niggles in feedback; and the sentiment is widespread that – though “still enjoyable” – the food can seem “a little mass-produced”. Even so, practically all diners still consider them “dependable for a quick, cheap ’n’ cheerful bite”. Top Tip – the new, 150-cover Paddington branch is their first opening in six years and puts a focus on sustainability and a menu including some larger sharing plates (e.g. grilled Achiote Seabass, Lamb Barbacoa and Chimichurri Cauliflower).

“Superb elevated Mexican food” – “verging on fine dining” – is served at chef Yahir Gonzalez and former Sketch manager Tony Geary’s Shoreditch yearling that “deserves more recognition”. The Latino fare is “not the usual stuff”, with “interesting dishes” showcasing “sensational flavours, often gently spiced but some more so for those who want it hot”. “Knowledgeable and approachable staff” ensure a “very well-paced meal, with plates brought out in a thoughtful order (not whenever they’re ready, like so many other supposedly top small-plates places)”. Any sniping is generally reserved for the “industrial vibe” dining room, which some see as “far too noisy”: “they could do with creating some nooks and a bit more privacy for some of the tables”.

A “very good Mexican near Tower Bridge”, which has a more café-style spin-off in Shoreditch. Both serve a selection of tacos, tostados and quesadillas and both make a feature of bottomless brunch, but at the original there’s also regional dishes, like sea bass cooked over a wood-fire grill and Beef Short Rib with Oaxacan Mole.