Mexico in Paris: El Chihuahua
If you share my aversion to “white-tablecloth” restaurants with their discreet waiting staff and din of polite conversation and clinking glasses, then make your way to El Chihuahua, a lively Mexican restaurant that transforms la cena into la fiesta.
Although the restaurant boasts a pleasant terrace overlooking the Seine, where you can catch the end of the day’s rays, enjoying a cocktail, this is one restaurant where even the French don’t battle to dine à l’extérieur. With its exotic, colourful décor and impressive size, stepping inside is like entering a magnificent Latino wonderland.
From 9pm, the restaurant’s fantastic resident musical trio on trumpet, guitar, violin and voice waltz from table to table playing your requests. From old commercial favourites to rhythmic salsa and the more authentic and nostalgic numbers, they provide an entertaining accompaniment to your fajitas.
In addition to the enticing ambiance, the menu does not disappoint, offering an ample choice of starters, salads and grilled meats, and of course, the mandatory tacos, fajitas, burritos and enchiladas. You can, however, choose the set menu at a reasonable enough €23, and sample the delicious cactus salad, one of the main Mexican dishes and a dessert.
As you’re polishing off your meal, the whole restaurant (well-warmed up at this stage by the musicians, a cocktail or two or some sweet Mexican wine) will be literally swaying, either at their tables, but for the most part, on the inviting centre-piece of the restaurant: the dance floor. La fiesta del Chihuahua in full swing, you’ll leave checking out Bastille’s bars for another night!
36 boulevard de la Bastille
75012 Paris
Metro: line 1, 4 or 8
For reservations: 01 43 43 79 79 (recommended for big parties and Saturday evening)
Opening hours: 11.30am – 3pm (except Saturday and Sunday)
7pm – 2am (every night)
