The Barrio is in East London

I've been trying to leave this group for 10 years. Vaya con dios 

Elaine Benes (Seinfeld episode “The Puerto Rican Day”) 

Two weeks ago I was invited to try the brunch of Barrio East. The Barrio family has already 3 places in London, one in Islington (Barrio North), one in Soho (Barrio Central), and the third one in Shoreditch (Barrio East). All of them are characterised by serving Latin American inspired drinks. 

Barrio Brunch

The newest of the three is Barrio East. They opened back in November and started the brunch a few months back. It’s the only one with a full menu, as Barrio Central only do some tapas. The chef in charge is Beatriz Maldonado, Colombian born, took her time traveling around Latin American, learning and improving recipes. Now as a head chef of Barrio East she is giving us traditional cuisine in a balanced menu that is a culinary journey through the region. 

Our table

Colourful Timber yard

We got there and ordered a sin free smoothie (Strawberry Mango Bango) and a bespoke bloody mary. The Verdita Bloody Maria with Mezcal, strong with a good combination of flavours, perfect for a Sunday hangover, Ave Maria Purisima! 

Mezcal Time

But let’s talk about food. Marisol got the Mexi-Can, smashed avocado serve on a wholemeal toast, topped with poached eggs and jalapeño peppers. Quite nice, good flavours, nothing goes wrong with avocado, a good spicy touch by the jalapeños, nice fried tortilla strips on top. Also as a side she added an Argentinean chorizo, full of flavour, just perfect combination. I went for an Uruguayan sandwich, the Chivito Sandwich. Thinly sliced rump, bacon, melted cheese, roasted peppers, grilled onions, and a fried egg. I have to say this is one of the best sandwiches in London. The well-seasoned rump, nice touch of bacon, amazing melted cheese, the punch of mustard, and the puffy and soft olive bun gives this sandwich the perfect balance and combination. 

Uruguayan delight

The Mexi-Can

Brunch is Saturday and Sunday in the Timber Yard from 11am to 3pm.

The Caravan

You won’t get more traditional than this in London. So if you fancy truly Latin American flavours go to Barrio East. I should come back to try some arepas, get another Chivito sandwich and drink some cocktails during Happy Hour! Vayan con dios!

Chivito, Chivito, Chivito mio!

Barrio East

T: 020 7749 3940

Latin American Cuisine

Approx Damage: £15pp

Area: Shoreditch

Borough: Hackney

Twitter: _BarrioEast

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