Gin bars, Italian joints and cocktail lounges – Nali Patio’s ever-expanding inventory of quality late-night hotspots is really proving its superiority as of late. Now joining the party is a Mexican bar and restaurant, helmed by pizza pros Bottega, which is located just a few steps away.
As we walk into El Barrio, across the gray tiled floors of the cheery terrace (quite a glow up for the once barren and neglected space), we’re greeted by lively rows of tables, a modern marble bar – stocked with top-notch tequila – along with eccentric art and vivid neon lights adorning the walls.
After taking in the ultra-hip decor, we can’t help but carb-load here and go big with the El Barrio nachos (RMB68), dosed with Monterrey Jack cheese, a black bean puree, avocado salsa and juicy pico de gallo.
Aside from the quintessential offerings one would hope to find at a Mexican restaurant, the Lamb Birria (RMB138) caught our eye – a tender Herculean hunk of slow-braised lamb that pulls apart effortlessly.
But we came here for the tacos (and you probably will too.) Sticking to the basics, we opt for the al pastor (RMB68), topped with grilled pineapple salsa, and carne asada (RMB118) made with chargrilled wagyu flank steak, both of which vanish within minutes of being set down on our table. They also offer tasty Baja-style fish tacos (RMB88), made with crispy Icelandic halibut and garnished with chipotle crema and a cabbage slaw.
Wash it all down with the Frozen Batida (RMB68), a frosty and boozy treat – mixed with pineapple, coconut milk and lime – that we can only imagine was concocted with a sun-soaked rooftop in mind.
We stay for the dessert, a seductively sweet Kahlua chocolate flan (RMB48) and are left scraping the dish for every liquor-drenched drop of custard.
By the end, we’re fully convinced that El Barrio is about to take over this nightlife hub. If not just for its trendy and tasteful party vibe, then for its expansive outdoor seating (though we’ll have to wait a season or two to fully capitalize on the airy space.)
This begs the question: Is there anything Bottega can’t do?
[Images via Andrew Braun/That's]
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