Nominative determinism is at play at Solita’s latest venture. “El taquero” is the Spanish equivalent of “taco maker”, and is the home of the first traditional Mexican taqueria to open in the city centre by the foodies responsible for the Big Manc. Corn tortillas are made fresh in-house everyday using a Mexican press, which serve to deliver toppings for tacos and quesadillas. Tacos come in at £2.75 for one and £7.50 for three, with meat and veg options. The highlight for me was easily their Carnitas; slow cooked pork with pineapple pico di gallo. Juicy and tender pork married perfectly with homemade salsa. Carne Asado (flat iron steak strips), Steak & Shrimp and Beef Brisket were all feats in expertly-marinated meat and their White Fish taco delivered a lovely crunch. There’s a veggie-friendly Street Corn option too. All this was washed down with frozen margaritas and Estrella. Where the space previously had a dark and brooding ambience in its former incarnations as The Bouncing Czech and Montpellier’s, El Taquero has given it a fresh burst of life with bold licks of paint, bright lights, various little pots of cacti and patterned-Mexican tiles that line the stairs, no doubt inspired by authentic taquerias. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for details of their 50% off food deal for their soft launch.
Taking bookings now: El Taquero, Back Turner Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M4 1FR. Tel: 0161 839 2200, www.eltaquero.co.uk
- Words:
- Edwina Chan
- Published on:
- Tue 8 Aug 2017
