As you step off Camden High Street and make your way down Inverness Street, you’ll still feel the usual buzz of life in the area. However, something new is catching the attention of both locals and foodies alike.
Welcome to El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant, a fresh gem in Camden’s crown, offering a vibrant and authentic taste of Mexico City.
The creation of Aima Indigo, who brings experience from her time at La Bodega Negra and Mestizo Chelsea, El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Camden is more than just another Mexican restaurant.
Originally from the coastal region of Veracruz, Aima infuses her deep connection to her Mexican roots into every part of El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant, from the lively bar at the front to the colourful staircase leading to the upper floor.
The result? El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant is a vibrant bar and restaurant that celebrates Mexican culture with a contemporary twist, making it a go-to for anyone who appreciates good food and good vibes in Camden.
A Warm Welcome at El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Camden
Upon entering El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant, you’re greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The décor blends traditional Mexican charm with a modern edge, providing an immersive dining experience.
The stylish lighting and chic banquette seating, complemented by vibrant traditional tiles, set the scene for an indulgent dining experience at El Cenote.
Aima’s passion is evident, but the real highlight is what emerges from the kitchen of El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant.
Under the skilled leadership of Chef Daniel Sanchez, the menu at El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Camden is a love letter to Mexican street food and his family’s cherished recipes, with a few modern twists along the way.
A native of Mexico City, Sanchez, who has worked at top spots like Mexcalito and Ella Canta, is an expert when it comes to spices, and his culinary expertise is clear in every dish.
The Starters: Cochinita Pibil Tacos and Ceviche Sinaloa
We started our culinary journey at El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Camden with two of the starters. The Cochinita Pibil Tacos were a standout, with the pork slow-cooked in achiote, orange juice, and spices, creating a dish that melts in your mouth. The achiote provides a gentle heat, while the citrus notes from the orange juice add a refreshing contrast, all wrapped in soft corn tortillas — a true taco masterpiece.
The Ceviche Sinaloa, however, was the star. The seabass, marinated in lime juice, was incredibly fresh and tender, complemented by red onion, a hint of spice, and crunchy pomegranate seeds, which brought both sweetness and texture. Light, refreshing, and undeniably delicious.
The Main Attraction: Parrillada Cielo, Mar y Tierra
Next up at El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant was the Parrillada Cielo, Mar y Tierra — a generous platter of grilled meats that’s sure to delight any meat lover. This hearty dish for two featured succulent beef cooked to a perfect medium-rare, plump shrimp, smoky grilled chicken, and spicy chorizo. Each element was perfectly seasoned, bringing out the best in each cut of meat.
Served with warm tortillas and a trio of salsas ranging from mild to fiery, this dish transports you to a Mexican barbecue without leaving Camden. It’s a filling and satisfying main course, perfect for sharing.
The Mocktails: Virgin Daiquiri and Passion Island
Mocktails can sometimes be uninspiring, but not here. The Virgin Daiquiri at El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant, available in different flavours, is refreshing and zesty. We chose the Virgin Passionfruit Daiquiri, which blended non-alcoholic white cane spirit, lime juice, and passionfruit for a sweet yet tangy tropical drink.
The Passion Island mocktail was the real showstopper, with its mix of homemade banana elixir, passionfruit puree, pineapple juice, lime, and coconut sugar. It was like sipping a tropical escape in a glass, proving that mocktails can be just as exciting as their alcoholic counterparts.
The Verdict: El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant is a Camden Must-Visit
El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Camden is more than just a place to eat — it’s a full sensory experience that combines the rich traditions of Mexico with a modern London twist.
Aima Indigo and Chef Sanchez have crafted something truly special here, where the flavours of Mexico are brought to life with passion and skill. The lively Camden atmosphere is just the icing on the cake.
For those seeking authentic Mexican cuisine, creative drinks, and a vibrant setting, El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant in Camden is a must-visit. Whether you’re after a casual bite or a lively night out, this is one Mexican Restaurant you won’t want to miss.
El Cenote Mexican Bar & Restaurant
2 Inverness Street, Camden, London NW1 7HJ
www.elcenotecamden.com
