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London’s Best Mexican Food: Where to Find Authentic Flavors
16 Sept 2025
When you think of London’s food scene, Mexican cuisine might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But the city is home to a thriving Mexican food culture, where authentic flavors, traditional recipes, and modern twists come together. From hidden taquerías to upscale dining, London’s Mexican food scene is a delicious surprise for food lovers.
Tacos:
Tacos are the cornerstone of Mexican food, and London’s taquerías are serving up some of the best outside of Mexico. Look for tacos al pastor (marinated pork with pineapple), carne asada (grilled beef), and birria (slow-cooked meat stew).
Where to Find the Best Tacos
- Breddos Tacos (Soho): A London favorite, Breddos serves up creative tacos with bold flavors. Try their birria tacos or pescado (fish) tacos.
- El Pastor (Borough): Famous for its tacos al pastor, this spot uses a traditional trompo (vertical spit) for authentic flavor.
- Mestizo (Euston): A casual taquería with a focus on traditional Mexican food, including tacos de carnitas and barbacoa.
Mole:
Mole is one of Mexico’s most celebrated dishes—a rich, complex sauce made from chiles, spices, nuts, and sometimes chocolate. In London, you’ll find everything from mole poblano (the most famous variety) to mole negro (a darker, smokier version).
Where to Find the Best Mole
- Casa Pastor (Borough): From the team behind El Pastor, Casa Pastor offers a refined take on Mexican food, including an excellent mole poblano.
- Mestizo (Euston): Their mole negro is a standout, served with tender chicken and rice.
- Club Mexicana (Various Locations): A vegan-friendly spot that serves a delicious mole made with plant-based ingredients.
Tamales:
Tamales are a staple of Mexican food, made from masa (corn dough) filled with meats, cheeses, or sweets, then wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves and steamed. In London, you’ll find both traditional and creative takes on this classic dish.
Why You Must Try It
- Historical: Tamales date back to the Aztec empire and remain a beloved part of Mexican culture.
- Portable: Perfect for eating on the go, tamales are a hearty and satisfying snack or meal.
- Variety: Fillings range from rajas con queso (peppers and cheese) to mole con pollo (chicken in mole sauce).
Where to Find the Best Tamales
- Mestizo (Euston): Their tamales are made fresh daily, with options like pork in green salsa or sweet pineapple.
- El Nivel (Peckham): A casual spot with a focus on traditional Mexican food, including tamales on weekends.
- Mercado Metropolitano (Elephant & Castle): This food market often features Mexican vendors selling tamales and other street food.
Birria:
Birria is a traditional Mexican food from Jalisco, made with slow-cooked meat (usually goat or beef) in a rich, spicy broth. In London, it’s often served as tacos, dipped in consommé for extra flavor.
Where to Find the Best Birria
- Breddos Tacos (Soho): Their birria tacos are a must-try, served with a side of consommé for dipping.
- El Pastor (Borough): Known for their tacos al pastor, they also serve excellent birria.
- Corazón (Soho): A trendy spot with a focus on modern Mexican food, including birria tacos.
Churros:
Churros are a beloved Mexican food made from crispy, fried dough dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with chocolate or cajeta (caramel) for dipping.
Where to Find the Best Churros
- El Pastor (Borough): Their churros are served with thick, rich chocolate for dipping.
- Mestizo (Euston): A great spot for churros, especially after a meal of tacos or tamales.
- Mercado Metropolitano (Elephant & Castle): Look for Mexican vendors selling fresh, hot churros.
Final Thoughts:
London’s Mexican food scene is a vibrant mix of tradition, innovation, and authentic flavors. From the smoky, tangy tacos al pastor to the rich, complex mole, there’s something for every palate.
