Review: Zapote, Shoreditch

Jenny O’Neill discovers a buzzy spot in London that needs to be on your list to visit

Located in the heart of Shoreditch, Zapote is a super cool spot serving amazing authentic Mexican food. It’s a restaurant and bar all rolled into one, with a lively buzz and bustling atmosphere – meaning you know you’ve struck gold, even before you’ve tried the food. When we visited on a regular Tuesday night, it was packed with diners.

The restaurant boasts an open-kitchen layout, where you can watch the chefs expertly preparing your food right in front of you. With three separate cooking stations and a big bar area, the layout enables you to enjoy your dinner with what feels like a culinary show.

The menu has all the Mexican classics you’d expect, but with a special twist, and part of what we loved so much here was the inventive nature of the cooking. If you’re looking to step out of your comfort zone, this is the perfect place to do it. The exciting and diverse menu invites you to try something you might not usually go for and each dish offers an adventure for your taste buds. This is the ideal spot to expand your culinary horizons and discover new flavours and textures that you might not have tried otherwise. Our tip – ask the waiters for recommendations. Our server was super helpful and helped us decide the right dishes for us – and we certainly weren’t disappointed.

We tried everything from the yellowfin tuna and spicy crab tostado and the spicy chorizo, potato and burnt cheese to the fresh red prawn ceviche, and it was all made with care, with delicious fresh and fiery flavours, and interesting textures to boot. The presentation is top-notch too.

They also make some killer cocktails. Each one was like a little work of art, and they are the ideal match for the Mexican flavours in the dishes.

Finally, we have to mention the sharing dessert. Without spoiling the surprise, the chocolate pud is well worth ordering - not only does it taste good, it’s an Instagrammer’s dream too!

So, if you’re ever in Shoreditch, this place is a must-visit. It’s got everything you need for a fantastic night out – good food, good drinks, and good vibes. You won’t regret it! Whether you’re there for a casual dinner or a night out with friends, this spot promises an unforgettable experience.

Find out more here.