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Taqueria - review by Lacrimosa

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 10:08:40 +0000

Taqueria - review by Lacrimosa

Rating: 4.0

Location: 139-143 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7229 4734

Website: http://www.coolchiletaqueria.co.uk

I've just lunched with friends at Taqueria, lured by the special lunchtime menu (a selection all priced at Â£6) and impressed by the positive reviews here on Trusted Places. It's the sort of small, independent place I would have loved to have been able heap praise on, but unfortunately our experience fell a bit short.

We all ordered enchiladas: "Three corn tortillas dipped in a sauce of your choice and rolled around shredded chicken, more sauce, crema, fresh cheese and onion". Now, I'm a HUGE fan of hot, spicy, cheesy, saucy, tomato-y comfort food, so this sounded great. Our dishes arrived and we all tucked in, still deep in conversation - so deep, in fact, that it was a couple of minutes before I ventured to say "Err... is yours cold?". All three meals were no more than tepid, but no one had wanted to be the first to mention it. Now, I prefer my hot food to be sizzling hot, so, with the agreement of the others, went off in search of our waitress to ask for our meals to be reheated. To Taqueria's credit, they were apologetic and actually cooked the dishes again from scratch, although given that this was a weekday lunchtime it might have been a good idea to check whether we had time for this. Second time around it was warm but still not very hot, so I can only assume that authentic Mexican cuisine is supposed to be like that? If so, who am I to argue? Personally, though, I'd have enjoyed my food much more if it had scorched the roof of my mouth off, leaving me begging for mercy.

On the plus side, we enjoyed our drinks - jugs of tap water, Pacifico lager and some really yummy Clamato, which had been presented like a Bloody Mary with black pepper around the rim of the glass and a stick of celery. Meanwhile some chaps on the next table, who clearly knew what they were doing, had ordered a selection of smaller dishes from the regular menu. These looked a good deal tastier than what we had, although I could hardly shimmy over to their table and stick my elbow in their food to test the temperature.

Aside from us, there were very few others in the place during the couple of hours we spent there, and there seemed to be some maintenance work going on which might have been better left to outside opening hours. I'd try Taqueria again, as it seemed good value and all those excellent reviews are still ringing in my ears, but two strikes and it's out.

Taqueria - review by sue

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 15:57:10 +0000

Taqueria - review by sue

Rating: 4.0

Location: 139-143 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7229 4734

Website: http://www.coolchiletaqueria.co.uk

Tags: mexican, notthing hill, good value

Popped into Taqueria one afternoon for a quick, late lunch. It is a no-frills type of place, with basic dÃ©cor and smiling staff. Not the venue for a romantic rendezvous, but perfect for good value snack or meal.

After quite a while perusing the menu, and a couple of questions to our helpful waiter we ordered a few things to share - the Pollo Tostada; the Choriqueso Tacos; and the Carne Asada Tacos; along with sides of Frijoles de la olla and PlÃ¡tano frito. And of course a couple of beers.

While we enjoyed the food, it didn't particularly thrill us, though I would consider returning again to try some more dishes.

Taqueria - review by nopstar

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:29:17 +0000

Taqueria - review by nopstar

Rating: 4.0

Location: 139-143 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7229 4734

Website: http://www.coolchiletaqueria.co.uk

Tags: tacos, taqueria

Since leaving San Francisco earlier this year, I have been suffering serious taco withdrawal. My lnch repertoire included a weekly visit to my local truck for some carnitas and carne asada tacos. Iâ¬"m happy to report that Iâ¬"ve finally satisfied my taco fix.

I stumbled across this little gem this past week. For those looking for an authentic taco experience, I whole heartedly recommend you get to cool Chiquita Taqueria. They serve up good â¬Sstreet styleâ¬ tacos. No crunchy pre-formed shells, red meat and dodgy orange cheese here... only the real deal.

I order some tortilla chips and salsa for an app. Check the price before ordering... the chips came with a healthy dollop of Guac, Salsa, beans and an Â£8 price tag!

Taqueria - review by moorej

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 17:23:47 +0000

Taqueria - review by moorej

Rating: 4.0

Location: 139-143 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7229 4734

Website: http://www.coolchiletaqueria.co.uk

Tags: lively, good value, crowded, mexican

For those seeking dribblingly delicious Mexican fare only ('Old El Paso' lovers need not apply - there's nothing remotely resembling a chimichanga here!) Famous for bringing real tacos to London, I'd put this marvel of a place in my top 10 London restaurants - and would willingly walk the marathon on my hands to keep this place open. Don't expect a romantic setting or a quiet meal. This place is bustling with smiling, salivating customers.

Taqueria - review by Hugo

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:10:59 +0000

Taqueria - review by Hugo

Rating: 4.0

Location: 139-143 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7229 4734

Website: http://www.coolchiletaqueria.co.uk

Tags: lively, original, fun, mexican, tasty

Went here about a year ago and have been meaning to go back.

Taqueria is an authentic but desperately tasty Mexican gastronomic adventure.

I confess that I cannot remember the names of all the dishes I had (maybe the beer was a little tasty too) but I was struck by how tasty and original the food was. I have since moved out of the area but need an excuse to go back...

Bosphorous - review by gastro1

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 19:51:46 +0000

Bosphorous - review by gastro1

Rating: 4.7

Location: 59 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3JS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7584 4048

Tags: turkish, cheap eat

I have been a fan since the 70"s when Bosphorous was a big restaurant next door that did takeaway.

Very poplar with the Imperial College crowd and locals.

Outstanding Turkish Kebbabs and superb chilli sauce.

I recommend the Shish Kofte !

An esential part of the Golden Triangle on match days along with The Kings Head on Fulham Road (aka Finch's) even though they have ponced it up once too often now (and don't serve Youngs Winter Warmer) and of course Stamford Bridge the home of the mighty blues !

Bosphorous - review by maysamopm

Sun, 07 Oct 2007 18:49:23 +0000

Bosphorous - review by maysamopm

Rating: 4.7

Location: 59 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3JS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7584 4048

Tags: rare finds, bargain

Bosphorous is the best
from the fine lamb meat
to the chicken breast
when I dig into my mix
i just feel blessed
their meat is Real!
unlike Jordan's chest

just pay the small fee
for the lightning delivery
from the flames
to your tongue
flavours to make a pop
in your ear drum
enough chilli sauce
to burn an asian

so next time your out
remember this son:
BOSPHOROUS
THE BEST KEBAB
IN LONDON.

Simply the best kebab shop in London and possibly the world. This isn't your typical high street kebab take away, it would be an insult to lamb and chicken the world over to even think of comparing bosphorous to such places. Nearly 40 years in the business they know what they're doing. The meat is freshly marinated and prepared daily. There is a good range of kebabs at reasonable prices, complimented with an excellent assortment of sauces and salads to choose from. The large mixed grill kebab with homous and pitta bread is simply to die for. If you don't believe me then go down and check out the walls of this joint, which have been decorated with people's raving comments from all over the world.

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by gilka

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:12:21 +0000

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by gilka

Rating: 4.2

Location: 4 Berwick Street, W1F 0PA, London, United Kingdom

credit to my friend Frida who took me there! this place is cheap and offers good burritos ,taquitos, tortillas and other stuff...
great guacamole. they also do a nice drink from lime, sugar mint and soda. This is not a fancy place - simple and tasty.
****looks like it is closed down- not sure what is the situation

Bosphorous - review by MmarlonN

Fri, 01 Jun 2007 16:19:00 +0000

Bosphorous - review by MmarlonN

Rating: 4.7

Location: 59 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3JS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7584 4048

Excatly best place about Turkish Kebab in London. Place is too small and maybe uncomfortable but try to feel the taste. I have never seen a taste in Turkey.

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by spiros

Wed, 09 May 2007 21:16:54 +0000

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by spiros

Rating: 4.2

Location: 4 Berwick Street, W1F 0PA, London, United Kingdom

Tags: friendly staff, burrito, good value

We were really excited when we found out a burrito place was going to open near out work space on Poland Street several months ago. It is _so_ worth it. Really really friendly people, excellent food and normal prices. Been going there for several months and we keep going even though we moved down to Covent Garden. Do not underestimate the divine power of the burrito.

Bosphorous - review by lohar

Mon, 16 Apr 2007 05:04:23 +0000

Bosphorous - review by lohar

Rating: 4.7

Location: 59 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3JS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7584 4048

Tags: turkish, kensington, kebabs, take-away, kebab

Been comming to this place for over ten years regularly. Even though we don't live in the area, the taste and quality of the kebabs served here, pull me in time and time again. The lamb is juicy and fresh and the chicken very tasty and light.
My personal favourites to order are the Saddle Chops and Lamb Steaks "a kebab shop serving steaks, You bet, and they are awesome. On the chicken side of things, order the chciken leg. Its boneless and really juicy.
Beware the place closes at around midnight, doesn't open late like most of the other pale immitations. Not just a takeway, but does have seating as well. Uploaded this photo from their website. www.bosphoruskebabs.co.uk

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by SohoShannon

Tue, 20 Mar 2007 20:10:51 +0000

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by SohoShannon

Rating: 4.2

Location: 4 Berwick Street, W1F 0PA, London, United Kingdom

Tags: lively, cheap eat

Being from San Diego, I love Mexican food. I think they have the right idea, fresh, good portions, etc. The first time I went the food was cold. Not one to give up on a good Mexican food place I tried again.. Cold food again. I sent a workmate and he said the same thing. Warm it up! Gracias!

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by qwghlm

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 17:57:24 +0000

Beach Burrito Cafe - review by qwghlm

Rating: 4.2

Location: 4 Berwick Street, W1F 0PA, London, United Kingdom

This place is cheap but the food is strictly ordinary - not at all bad but it's never going to blow your mind. But given the paucity of decent Mexican cuisine in London, you'll probably be pleased enough here.

La Brocca - review by robeberstein

Wed, 14 Feb 2007 12:29:24 +0000

La Brocca - review by robeberstein

Rating: 4.0

Location: 273 West End Lane, NW6 1QS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7433 1989

The Bar upstairs is fantastic - mainly locals, very rustic and great service. The restaurant downstairs is awesome, real quality Italian food priced sensibly. Far more rustic than the chains.

La Brocca - review by Ladis19

Thu, 08 Feb 2007 23:56:15 +0000

La Brocca - review by Ladis19

Rating: 4.0

Location: 273 West End Lane, NW6 1QS, London, United Kingdom

Phone: 020 7433 1989

Tags: lively, family & home feel, cheap eat, good value, indian, romantic

Reviews on other sites which will remain unnamed&.. have not really painted a great picture of this place mainly with regards to the attitude of the waiting staff. Well, let me tell you, I have just been there for dinner and had outstanding service. So much so that it feels like the restaurant owner has read all of the reviews and acted upon them. If that is the case, hats of to him.

The food was great, very tasty but a tad too rich and greasy for my liking. That being said the menu offers a decent variety with original combinations, such as mushroom ravioli with gorgonzola. The tiramisu I had for desert was also very original, it had nuts inside! We didn't get to try the wine but the wine racks above the bar do look impressive.

The overall experience was delightful; the 2 waitresses were outstanding in every way, the food was good, the atmosphere was cool, relaxed and cosy, the bill very reasonable, perfect place for a date. The people are from all walks of life, mostly locals.