Camden to welcome El Cenote, a new Mexican cocktail bar and restaurant in May

Camden is set to welcome a new social highlight: El Cenote, Mexican cocktail bar and restaurant, slated to open its doors in mid-May on the bustling Inverness Street. This fresh establishment promises an authentic Mexican dining and drinking experience, spearheaded by local resident and hospitality veteran Aima Indigo, alongside Chef Daniel Sanchez, a native of Mexico City with a notable London culinary track record.

Aima Indigo, known for her work at La Bodega Negra and Mestizo Chelsea, brings her passion for Mexican culture from her origins in Veracruz to Camden. She envisions El Cenote as a venue where the beauty and vibrancy of Mexican traditions are celebrated through food and drink. “Our cocktails and food menu are inspired by the rich traditions and flavours of Mexico” comments Aima talking about the exciting journey ahead. 

Chef Daniel Sanchez, with a background that includes roles at Mexcalito, Chingon Tacos, and the opening of Ella Canta with Marta Ortiz, takes the lead in the kitchen. Drawing on his experience in Mexico City’s gastronomic scene and family recipes, Chef Sanchez aims to present a menu that combines comfort with innovation. Highlights include Cochinita Pipil Tacos, a dish involving soft corn tortillas filled with slow-cooked pulled pork, and Taco Birria, a creative take on a traditional spicy beef stew served in taco form. The menu also features Carne Asada Norteña, composed of marinated skirt steak or flank steak that has been grilled and thinly sliced, alongside a selection of plant-based options, including Sweet Potato Tacos, refried black beans with crispy sweet potato, and Crispy Mushroom Tacos, with vegan Manchego cheese and avocado tomatillo salsa.

The drinks menu, curated by Alma, complements the food with signature cocktails that capture the essence of Mexico. Among these are El Cenote, a twist on the classic Margarita prepared with cucumber and blue curacao, and Xocolatl, paying homage to Aztec traditions with its combination of tequila, chocolate liqueur, and mole sauce. The cocktails aim to be as much a draw as the culinary offerings, with options like La Guadalupe, La Lavanda, and Mexico Lindo, this latter adorned with colours reminiscent of the Mexican flag.

Food Desk

For further information and bookings, visit the restaurant’s website here.