Tex-Mex cuisine has long been popular in Britain, but there has been a recent shift towards proper Mexican food, leaving the days of gloopy burritos and loaded nachos behind. This transformation in the UK’s Mexican food scene has been nothing short of drastic, with an increasing number of restaurants and shops offering authentic Mexican dishes.
In the past, Mexican food in the UK often revolved around Old El Paso kits at home or greasy Tex-Mex restaurants with garish decorations. While these options certainly had their appeal, they weren’t necessarily representative of true Mexican cuisine. However, today’s culinary landscape tells a different story.
At the recent World’s 50 Best Restaurants awards, Kol, a Mexican-British fusion restaurant in Marylebone, ranked 23rd, making it the highest-ranking British entrant. Kol prides itself on using British ingredients to create Mexican-inspired dishes, such as tostadas made with ChalkStream trout from Hampshire or chalupas with Cornish crab. It is an unexpected achievement for a Mexican restaurant in a city renowned for its French and Indian cuisine.
But the transformation isn’t limited to high-end establishments. Mexican options have also improved at shops, supermarkets, and street-food vendors across the country. In the past, finding authentic tacos in the UK was a challenge, but now they are everywhere. From Glasgow to Manchester, Liverpool to Margate, you can hardly walk a few blocks without stumbling upon a taco truck.
Walter Ortiz, the owner of La Chingada in London’s Surrey Quays, believes that Mexican food was often misinterpreted in the UK. The Tex-Mex style that Brits were used to was just a small part of the story. However, with increased exposure to Mexico’s culinary culture and growing competition in the industry, Brits have begun to appreciate the complexity and authenticity of Mexican cuisine.
The growing market has also created new opportunities for chefs. Shaun Hurrell, the owner of Barrio Comida in Durham, saw the potential in bringing Californian Mexican food to the UK. Initially, he had to guide customers on how to eat tacos, but his eatery has become so popular that he recently opened La Mesa, a tasting menu restaurant dedicated to showcasing the full range of Mexican cuisine.
The success of Mexican food in the UK in recent years is a testament to the power of competition and discovery. As the quality has improved, Mexican cuisine has become a bright spot in the restaurant industry. From proper tacos to intricate tasting menus, there is a new appreciation for the flavors and ingredients that make Mexican food so vibrant.
As the popularity of Mexican cuisine continues to grow, one can’t help but wonder what other culinary gems are waiting to be discovered. In a time when the restaurant industry faces numerous challenges, the success story of Mexican food in the UK serves as a reminder of the power of innovation and the impact it can have on the dining scene.
In conclusion, the UK’s perception of Mexican food has undergone a remarkable transformation. Traditional Tex-Mex dishes have taken a back seat to authentic Mexican cuisine, with restaurants, shops, and street-food vendors offering a wide range of flavorful options. Whether it’s Michelin-starred restaurants or casual taco joints, the UK has embraced the true essence of Mexican food. The future looks promising for Mexican cuisine in Britain, with new discoveries and innovations waiting to tantalize the taste buds of food enthusiasts nationwide.
