Guess who’s gone and done a spruce up just in time for December festivities? Everybody’s favourite pan-Latin food and booze establishment, Barrio Central in Soho.
I had a tiempo fantastic when I swung round to take a gander at the spiffy new interiors (thumbs up) and take a bite out of the new menu.
Reflecting changes brought on by recently appointed Group Head Chef, Ernesto Pavia (ex-Head Chef of Bubbledogs), the menu consists of a short and simple (and rather tasty) list of botanas (snacks), tacos and nachos. The menu’s been rolled out at the other Barrio outlets as well, North in Angel, East in Shoreditch, and South in Brixton.
I found the tacos (£6 for order of two tacos) to be the best of the lot, and pretty good value for money too. The tacos al pastor (achiote marinated pork, cooked on the spit with slow roasted pineapple, white onions, and coriander) hit the spot as did the ancho chicken (“Mexican fried chicken” with winter slaw, citrus sour cream and pineapple salsa) and the lamb chilli (smoky minced lamb chilli with sour cream, pickled cucumber, Cheddar and cured egg yolk). Six quid for a couple of stacked high tacos seemed like pretty decent value too.
Cocktails are designed to do the job, and priced around £8.50 to £9. Have a
Wonky Donkey (Casco Viejo tequila, elderflower, ginger, lime and soda) for a refreshing kick.
As for the refurb, if you were already a fan of Barrio Central’s digs, you won’t be put off (I miss the front window seating though). It’s a bit snazzier (I love the super cool calavera wall paper) but retains the fun and ladiback place to party vibe.
Barrio Central is located at 6 Poland Street, W1F 8PS. Find out more at barriocentral.com. For details about all Barrio outlets go to welovebarrio.com.
