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Wahaca IslingtonB+Worth Trying

Name: Wahaca Islington
Address: 68-69 Upper St, London N1 0NY, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.4

68-69 Upper St, London N1 0NY · Mexican restaurant, Restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (2052 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Wahaca Islington delivers vibrant Mexican flavors in a lively, stylish setting with standout service and good value, though some diners report inconsistency and occasional service lapses.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Wahaca Islington delivers solid casual dining through exceptional service attentiveness and strong food quality, particularly for creative Mexican street food and vegetarian options. However, inconsistent execution and modest destination appeal prevent a higher grade—this is a reliable neighborhood spot rather than a must-visit destination. The vibrant, colorful setting and family-friendly atmosphere make it competitive with the area's better casual dining options.

Restaurant Summary

Step into Wahaca Islington and you'll find a vibrant, colorful space buzzing with energy and the aromas of modern Mexican street food. The decor is playful and inviting, with plenty of room for groups and families, and the staff—especially the much-praised Carlos—bring a warmth that makes even first-timers feel like regulars. Whether you're here for a casual dinner, a celebration, or just a quick bite before a show, the atmosphere is lively but never overwhelming. The culinary approach at Wahaca Islington is contemporary Mexican with a creative twist. Expect inventive small plates like Sweet Potato & Feta Taquito and Beet Tartare, alongside classics such as Beef Gringa tacos and hearty burritos. The menu is a playground for vegetarians and vegans, with plenty of plant-based options that don't feel like afterthoughts. Portions are fair for the price, and the value is strong compared to other London casual dining spots. If you love bold flavors and a bit of culinary adventure, you'll feel right at home. For families, Wahaca Islington is a solid choice. The menu features kid-friendly options like chicken tacos, cheese-laden quesadillas, and churros for dessert. Several reviews mention relaxed family meals and accommodating staff, and the spacious layout means you won't feel cramped. While the menu leans creative, there are enough familiar flavors to keep most kids happy—though picky eaters may want to stick to the basics. The restaurant's current menu confirms a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options, so dietary needs are well covered.

At a Glance

Standout service—Carlos and team consistently praised for friendliness and attentiveness.
Creative, modern Mexican menu with excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
Lively, colorful atmosphere perfect for groups and families.
Occasional inconsistency in food quality and portion size, especially in older reviews.
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; adventurous eaters will be happiest.

What Sets It Apart

creative_vegetarian_options
colorful_interior_design
standout_service_staff

What People Love

The energy and color of the space—'feels like a party every night'
Attentive staff who go above and beyond, especially Carlos
Inventive vegetarian and vegan dishes that impress even meat-eaters
Good value for money, especially for central London
Delicious churros and creative cocktails

Points of Concern

Some diners report inconsistent food quality and portion sizes, especially in older reviews.
A few complaints about slow service or missed orders during busy times.
Rare but notable incidents of poor problem resolution or defensive management.
Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters due to creative menu focus.

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£22-28 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Vegetarians and vegans should try the Sweet Potato & Feta Taquito or Beet Tartare.
For a hearty meal, opt for the Slow-Cooked Beef Burrito or Free Range Chicken Burrito.
Save room for churros or the Chocolate & Pecan Brownie for dessert.

Perfect For

A fun group dinner before a show at Angel
Vegetarians and vegans seeking flavorful options
Families looking for a lively, kid-friendly meal
Casual celebrations or birthday gatherings

Location Insights

Area: Trendy, lively North London neighborhood popular with young professionals, families, and students. Mix of casual dining, bars, and boutique shops.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with steady foot traffic, especially in evenings.

Nearby: Close to Angel station, surrounded by shops, cinemas, and other restaurants. Popular for pre-theatre and group dining.

Islington Upper StreetA bustling and cosmopolitan neighborhood featuring a dense concentration of independent restaurants, cafes, boutique shops, and trendy dining establishments. The area is characterized by its Victorian townhouses, active street life, and sophisticated urban dining environment.

AngelA dynamic sub-area known for its contemporary dining scene, proximity to tech businesses, and vibrant social atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–21:00 Tuesday12:00–22:00 Wednesday12:00–22:00 Thursday12:00–22:00 Friday12:00–22:00 Saturday12:00–22:00 Sunday12:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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