Ever since Tomasina Miers won Masterchef in 2005, she’s been on a mission to champion Mexican cuisine. Wahaca, born in 2007, is a testament to her love for fresh, honest Mexican market food.
Inspired by Miers’ travels to Mexico and her time in Mexico City, Wahaca recreates the vibrant flavors and social dining culture of Mexico right here in the UK.
As someone not particularly familiar with Mexican cuisine, apart from cooking the Lupe Pintos Chilli Con Carne recipe, I recently had the opportunity to revisit Wahaca, having last visited five years ago with friends from Australia. This time, it was to explore their seasonal specials, the Ham Hock Tacos (£7.50) and the Roast Potato Esquites (£6.95).
Upon the suggestion of our friendly waitress, Jasmine, we kicked off our culinary adventure with the new Smoky Sonoran Hummus (£5.95). Adorned with pumpkin seeds, this spicy and smoky delight, paired with tortilla chips and carrot sticks, made for a delightful start.
Unfamiliar with Wahaca’s ordering style, we opted for the ‘Favourite’s Set Menu,’ in addition to the seasonal specials. In hindsight, this was a rookie error. The sheer volume of food, all arriving simultaneously, left some dishes cooler than desired—a minor flaw in an otherwise enjoyable experience. Note to self: order fewer dishes or request staggered serving next time.
Despite our strategic misstep, the set menus offer excellent value at £49 for two. Our ‘Favourite’ menu comprised seven distinct plates, including Free Range Pork Pibil Tacos, Buttermilk Chicken Tacos, Grilled Chorizo Quesadilla, Sweet Potato & Feta Tacquito, Toasted Corn Bread, Crispy Cauliflower Bites, and Seasonal Greens. Personal favourites included the Buttermilk Chicken Tacos and the vibrant seasonal greens, a mix of grilled broccoli and winter kale in mojo de ajo and lime dressing.
The seasonal specials proved messy but undeniably delicious. The Ham Hock Tacos featured soft corn tortillas generously filled with Christmas-spiced ham, slaw, crema, pink pickled onions, and crumbled crackling—though my crackling had lost its crispiness by the time I indulged.
The Mexican twist on a Christmas dinner staple, Roast Potato Esquites (£6.95), featuring crispy roasties topped with charred corn, jalapeño allioli, crema, and cheese, was a winner that satisfied my carbohydrate cravings.
Wahaca’s festive offerings extend to the Festive Feast Menu (£35 per person), available for pre-booked groups of six or more. If you’re seeking a unique and flavourful alternative to the traditional Christmas turkey, Wahaca beckons with its bold and festive Mexican flair.
There’s no forking around at Wahaca, and Mexican food is best enjoyed with your hands—albeit a messy affair. But who cares when you’re a couple of margaritas down! Feliz Navidad!
Visit Wahaca’s website to plan your Mexican-style Christmas celebration or of course there is always the restaurant.
