* Location: 63 Camden High St, London NW1 7JL
* Website: Visit Website
* Price: £££ – Pricey
* Booking: Booking recommended, especially for evenings and weekends. Book here.
Frida Camden: More Than Just a Fiesta in North London?
Camden Market, a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells, isn’t always the first place one associates with refined dining. Yet, tucked amidst the vibrant chaos, Frida Camden emerges as a bold splash of colour and sophisticated flavour. Promising an authentic, yet contemporary, taste of Mexico, it steps confidently into London’s competitive culinary scene, aiming to be more than just another purveyor of tacos and tequila. Named, one assumes, after the iconic artist, the restaurant hints at passion, vibrancy, and perhaps a touch of the unconventional. It sets the stage for an experience that seeks to capture the spirit of modern Mexico, right here in NW1. Does it succeed in painting a masterpiece, or is it merely a sketch? Let’s dive in.
Atmosphere and Service: Where Colour Meets Composure
Stepping into Frida Camden is like walking into a meticulously curated celebration. The decor strikes a delightful balance between energetic Mexican aesthetics – think vibrant murals, colourful textiles, and tasteful nods to its namesake – and a chic, modern sensibility. It avoids caricature, opting instead for an ambiance that feels lively yet intimate. Exposed brickwork and warm lighting soften the edges, making it suitable for both a buzzing group dinner and a more relaxed tête-à-tête. The noise level is energetic, reflecting the Camden spirit, but conversation remains comfortable. Service on our visit was notably polished; staff were welcoming, knowledgeable about the menu (happily guiding us through unfamiliar territory), and attentive without hovering. They navigated the busy floor with an easy grace, adding a layer of relaxed professionalism to the vibrant backdrop.
A Culinary Canvas: Tasting Frida Camden’s Palette
The menu at Frida Camden confidently explores the diverse landscape of Mexican cuisine, moving beyond street food staples to showcase more complex preparations, while still nailing the classics. Fresh, high-quality ingredients are evident, and there’s a clear focus on balancing traditional flavours with modern presentation.
Cochinita Pibil Tacos
A true test of any Mexican kitchen, and Frida delivers admirably. Three soft corn tortillas arrived cradling heaps of achiote-marinated pork, slow-cooked to achieve that perfect, pull-apart tenderness. The flavour was deep and earthy, punctuated by the sharp, bright tang of pickled red onions and a subtle hint of citrus. Each bite was a satisfying blend of yielding meat, the slight chew of the tortilla, and the zesty counterpoint of the garnish. Simple, yes, but executed with a precision that elevated it beyond the ordinary street-food fare.
Tuna Tostada
A vibrant contrast to the rich tacos, this dish was a masterclass in freshness and texture. A crisp, golden tostada served as the base for jewel-like cubes of fresh, ruby-red tuna, glistening with a light, citrusy marinade. Creamy avocado provided smoothness, while finely diced red onion and chilli added a gentle heat and crunch. The presentation was as appealing as the taste – colourful, delicate, and instantly appetising. It was a light, bright starter that awakened the palate beautifully, showcasing the kitchen’s lighter touch.
Mole Poblano with Chicken
Mole is often considered the pinnacle of Mexican sauces, and Frida’s version demonstrated why. The chicken, perfectly cooked and moist, was generously coated in a complex, dark, and enigmatic mole poblano. Notes of chocolate, chilli, nuts, and spices unfolded gradually on the palate – rich, slightly smoky, and deeply savoury with just a whisper of sweetness. Served alongside fluffy rice and warm tortillas for scooping, it was a comforting yet sophisticated main course that felt both authentic and thoughtfully prepared. A dish that demands, and rewards, attention.
The drinks list keeps pace, offering a well-curated selection of tequilas and mezcals, alongside inventive cocktails that riff cleverly on Mexican flavours (the Margarita variations are particularly noteworthy). Wine options are concise but chosen to complement the cuisine, and appealing non-alcoholic choices ensure everyone feels catered for.
Final Brushstrokes and Essential Details
Frida Camden successfully carves out its niche, offering a genuinely enjoyable and elevated Mexican dining experience in the heart of bustling Camden. It manages to be both fun and sophisticated, delivering vibrant flavours through well-executed dishes, served in a lively atmosphere by attentive staff. While the energy might be a touch boisterous for a truly hushed, romantic evening, it’s perfectly suited for lively date nights, dinners with friends, pre-gig fuel, or anyone seeking authentic Mexican fare with a contemporary edge. The Cochinita Pibil alone is worth navigating the market crowds for. Frida Camden isn’t just painting by numbers; it’s creating its own vibrant canvas.
