In the current digital age, Facebook is just as powerful a marketing tool as any. It is there that I saw a gorgeous video of Club Mexicana’s food at Pamela bar, and thought it was worth a try. But was it any good? Time to find out...
Ideal for:
Wanting something quirky
Vegetarians and Vegans
Mexican food lovers
Ambience & Décor
In keeping with the surrounding hipster area of Shoreditch, the interior was shabby and poorly maintained. Dimly lit, with cheap, easy-to-maintain furniture, it felt like a shack. The small restaurant meant cramped dining, which is a bugbear. The raucous atmosphere of a packed restaurant means conversation was not easy to maintain.
Service
Service was a struggle. The packed, cramped restaurant was posing a navigational nightmare for the staff. In addition, they gave some tables more attention than others. When served, table service was pleasant and accommodating.
Food
Due to the relatively small selection, we ordered most the menu. Each dish has been reviewed separately.
The To-Fish Ceviche Tostada (left) was served with lime, coriander, avocado, tomato, radish and jalapeños. Despite numerous ingredients, I liked the presentation. The freshness of the ingredients was in abundance, but I wanted the texture of avocado more. The fish was cooked perfectly, and paired well with the balanced flavour combinations.
Whilst the dish packed flavour, the Annato Aubergine with Sour Cream and Coriander was not enough for me to like aubergines. The soft slimy texture was too off-putting.
The “Chicken” wings (right) were the highlight of the night. Not only were the portions ample, but the size of the wings was pleasing. Drizzled on top was a hot chilli sauce intertwined with mayonnaise to add and then temper the heat. The added kick elevated the taste of the dish. The wings were made from Seitan, and it was a wonderful facsimile of chicken. The crispy coating was light and not oily. Nothing was overcooked or too greasy. I would return for these alone.
The Blue corn quesadilla with braised jackfruit, roasted courgette, melted smoked cheese, avocado Salsa Verde & arbol chilli (see left) was suprisingly bland. It needed more of the chilli, but the salsa tasted fresh. Another dish that did disappoint was the Carne Asada Taco. The arbol chilli salsa and pinto beans in isolation taste fine, but together felt distracted. Something was amiss, in addition to the weird texture. I think it needed some sweet element.
The Baja To-Fish Taco contained pickled red cabbage, avocado Salsa Verde and chipotle chilli oil. Big fan of the pickled cabbage which complemented well with the chipotle chilli and freshness of avocado. The fish was well cooked and one of the few winners ordered.
The dessert of El Chapo Ice Cream Sandwich (right) was a total bust. Not only was the ice cream grainy the “sandwich” was devoid of complexity and fine flavours. Tasted peculiar, so left it after two bites.
Overall, Club Mexicana’s food was hit and miss. Some combinations worked better than others, but I applaud the effort. The chicken wings are something to come back for, as they were delicious. Poor décor, temperamental service and cramped dining in addition to the average food, gives Club Mexicana a C- rating.
Photos of Club Mexicana and more can be found on Instagram here.
Final grade: C-
Final comment: Tries hard with its limitations to varying success. “Chicken” Wings the best.
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