Opening of the week: Del 74
What: This buzzy no-frills taqueria is the latest addition to London’s burgeoning taco scene.
Who: Jorge Felizardo, who co-launched Taberna Mercado with Nuno Mendes, has teamed up with the creator of Shoreditch’s Boho Mexica, Enrique Vivas, to bring their taco obsession to Hackney. Del 74 began popping-up at cocktail bar Klub Trop last year and has now taken over the site for its first permanent home.
The vibe: Loud and fun, Del 74 feels more like a friends bar than your average sit-down taco restaurant. Both founders have stamped their personality on the space – the tips bucket is beneath a basketball hoop behind the bar and Jorge greets every guest like an old friend. The open kitchen and catchy soundtrack sees the restaurant fill-up quickly in the evenings to become a buzzing spot.
The menu: Tacos are having a bit of a moment in London right now, and Del 74 is a case of Mexican food done simply and well. The tight menu has a choice of just three quesadillas and six tacos with fillings such as slow-cooked leg of lamb (£2.80); sautéed tilapia topped with homemade coleslaw (£3); and a veggie version with crispy sweet potatoes that can almost pass for pulled pork (£2.50). If you miss out on one of the tiny tables there’s also space to perch at the bar with tortilla chips and fresh guacamole, washed down with cucumber margaritas and Mexican beers.
And another thing: Both Jorge and Enrique were born in 1974, hence the restaurant’s name and madcap 70’s inspired art and graphics. The pair have hinted that there’s a possibility Del 74 could eventually branch out to another London site, so watch this space.
87 Lower Clapton Rd, London E5
