Mexican Delights at El Cenote in Camden

 Situated just off the vibey Camden Market stretch, and opposite a smaller indy market, you will find El Cenote. This gem really shouldn’t be missed as it’s easy to overlook it to venture into the market for grub, but actually the food here is better!

The restaurant has a sunny outdoor terrace, or like me, you can sit in the open window. In my opinion, the best seat in the house and the perfect spot for people watching. This restaurant is known for its fantastic cocktail menu, so take a seat, order and sip away before digesting the wider menu.

During our visit, we tried a couple of the cocktails and really loved the Classic Lychee Margarita. You can find all the Southern American classics including Palomas, Spicy Margs and more, with playful and unique twists.

Onto the food menu. It’s absolutely essential to order some Guacamole here. Or if avocado isn’t your thing, opt for the selection of salsas with tortilla chips. You can then have your dip of Salsa Roja – tomato, chilli arbol; Salsa Avocado Verde – tomatillo, avocado, jalapeno; Salsa Martajada – roasted tomatoes, coriander, garlic, onions or Habanero Salsa – hot chilli mayo.

There’s a super impressive taco menu, and each Tuesday they are two for one – ideal for an almost-mid-week pick me up. We tried the Baja Fish Tacos with battered seabass, pickled cabbage, chipotle mayo and habanero sauce – which were awesome. I was also intrigued by the Taco Al Pastro which included seasoned and marinated pork with pineapple, coriander, red onion and salsa roja.

For the main event there is a wide selection of authentic Mexican dishes, including King Prawn Al Tequila, Polo En Mole and Arrachera. I went for the veggie Enchiladas Verdes. A classic, the flavours were powerful, fragrant and delicious, and the portion was monumental – plenty to share!

If you’re dining with a friend, there is a fantastic Parrillada Cielo which serves two. A platter of chargrilled beef, shrimps, grilled chicken and chorizo seasoned the El Cenote way, served with tortillas, salsas, spicy jalapeños and grilled spring onions.

We were stuffed to the brim, so didn’t go for dessert, but again these are classic Mexican dishes including a Pastel De Elote, a moist Mexican cake originating from Jalisco made with sweet corn kernels and sweetened with dulche de leche, and a Imposoble – chocolate and cream flan with dulche de leche.

The team are happy and helpful and the spot is jam packed due to its location so close to Camden Market. Definitely worth the short journey north of Central London. I’ll be back!

Find out more > www.elcenotecamden.com