Founder and head chef Daniel Corrochio brings his eponymous restaurant Corrochio’s to the edgy streets of Dalston. Setting up shop at Ruby’s, a bar and lounge that’s well known to East London locals, the 30-cover restaurant is an intimate holding that serves ‘proper Mexican cuisine by authentic Mexican cooks’. Daniel was born and raised in Mexico, is a trained mixologist and actually used to run Ruby’s, so it seems like a natural transition to take over its food and drinks offering after a two-year stint at the Dalston holding. The space can be found next to Ruby’s bar, although it does have its own separate entrance on street level to elevate it from pop-up-vibe to an established restaurant in its own right.
Corrochio’s Mexican kitchen is all about offering a light-hearted dining experience while feasting on plates that overindulge the palate. Drawing on the traditional Mexican food Daniel grew up with, the concise menu comprises authentic plates from tacos to guacamole with homemade tortilla chips. Nibble on one of the ‘shareables’ with friends, including crispy grilled tortillas with melted cheese and your choice of filling, or pork pastor with beef brisket, rajas and plantain or cheese. Meanwhile, mains include enchiladas with mole and salsa, beef brisket with refried beans, rice and tortillas as well as an ever-changing ‘taco of the week’. There are also vegan options available.
The dishes are designed to be paired with Daniels’ expertly-made drinks offering including cocktails, tequilas and other lesser-known Mexican spirits. Expect cocktails packed with agave, mezcal, jalapeno syrup and other punchy ingredients, along with a range of Mexican beers for the not-so-adventurous.
The rustic interiors match the authentic nature of the food here. Bare brick walls simply adorned with quirky Mexican artwork, low lighting and a cosy fireplace… Line us up a margarita and we’ll be right over.