Mescal Cantina Bar restaurant is specialises in highly authentic Mexican food as well as Tex-Mex. The restaurant’s walls are adorned with pictures of Mexican figures like painter Frida Cahlo. The venue has been run by Mexican native Caesar and his family who have lived in London for 16 years. Caesar explains that fajitas and burritos are an American style of cuisine known as Tex-Mex, and that the dishes in his restaurant are authentically Mexican.
Chilli, he says, is commonly misinterpreted: it’s not about making the food hot, but adding taste.
We began our meal with a sharing platter of five different tacos. The different types – pork, chicken, beef – were served with a classic margarita and, later, a mango margarita. A taco of shredded beef with chipotle sauce, coriander and guacamole, was delicious and further tacos with Mexican chicken and pork better still.
Then there’s mole, a black sauce made with 22 different ingredients including chocolate, and enchiladas, the vegetarian option. We went for the chicken and the mole sauce was delicious.
Mixed fajitas were our other main, served with black beans, salsa and three corn tortillas.
This simple, colourful, affordable and vibrant food was served with warmth and charm.
The best part of going to a family-run restaurant is that family soon start to know you and greet you like a friend. This neighbourhood joint is a must-visit for its rich, authentic menu and cocktails.
Mezcal Cantina Bar Restaurant
16 Stoke Newington Church St, Stoke Newington, London N16 0LU
020 7923 2810