Wahaca Canary Wharf

Marvelous Tacos and Remarkable Hospitality

Wahaca Canary Wharf is ambitiously masquerading as a slice of Mexican fiesta in the metropolis, drawing a mixed crowd of devoted followers and curious wanderers alike. Tucked away in the depths of a shopping complex, its design flirts between the imitation of street-side vibrancy and corporate conformity, splashing bursts of color amidst its stark wooden accents. While some patrons wax lyrical about the myriad vegan delicacies, such as gourmet plantain tacos or robust avocado salads, others grumble bitterly about the inevitability of shrinkflation—and the brazen substitution of bowls for what was once a third taco companion.

Service proves mercurial; rub shoulders with Hamza or indulgent Noa and experience genuine warmth juxtaposed against tales of wayward hosts abandoning their posts, leading to queues worthy of an art gala opening. The kitchen’s output veers unpredictably from the sublime (freshly fired churros lighting up taste buds) to the underwhelming (tacos whose tenderness rivals industrial cement). Is Wahaca elevating itself above pedestrian chains? On a particularly merry night, the effervescence of Margaritas may meld all into an agreeable blur, yet for stalwart seekers remedying a genuine longing for Mexico’s essence—the ambiance teeters precariously on the edge of novelty dining misadventure. Nevertheless, amidst the noise, theres comfort to be found here much like an embrace from an awkward uncle trying his darnedest at authenticity. A visit is sensational, albeit poignantly unpredictable; risky dish allocations are to be approached with caution. — Penelope Savory