As winter descends upon us faster than we can say “adios amigo”, it’s that time of year again to source our hibernation spots in the best bars and brasseries the city has to offer.
Tucked away on a busy street in the city centre, it’s easy to miss, and if it wasn’t for the alluring neon lights reading “bar” shining from the basement windows, I could have easily walked straight past this hidden gem.
From the moment you walk in, you’re immediately hit by a barrage of convivial sensations: the toasty warmth and dim lighting, enticing scents wafting from the kitchen, and the contented hum as cocktail shakers clatter away – all promising omens for a wonderful evening ahead.
Copenhagen is a long way from Mexico, but the talented bunch at Barburrito have managed to squeeze a whole lot of modern fiesta into their slick, tiny hub on Skindergade. The eatery boasts a food philosophy of “homemade, honest and with love” and describes its gastronomic concept as Mexican street kitchen combined with seasonal Danish produce.
The bar presents an informal yet stylish interior – with not a single tacky sombrero in sight. The room is washed in warm reds, with industrial-style, low-hanging lights, comfy leather seats and collections of playful vintage photographs hanging on the tiled walls. Its festive but relaxed atmosphere is immediately reminiscent of New York-style dining with seating at the bar and a bunch of cosy nooks to snuggle up in.
The place was buzzing, even though it was relatively early on a Tuesday evening, but despite the distractions, the sprightly gents behind the bar received me warmly. I decided to jump right in and go with the ‘Hola! Menu’ just to try a little of everything and ensure I didn’t miss out on any of the culinary delights on offer.
The tasty starters arrived almost faster than I could take a sip of my pre-dinner cocktail. The Plantain ‘chips’ and crispy pork skin served with incredible chunky guacamole and spicy dressings were a perfect little kick to prep the taste buds. They were soon followed by the simple dish of Corn on the cob smothered in a coriander cream with a hint of chilli. I never thought a food I once exclusively associated with bad carnival memories could taste so delicious.
The highly-anticipated main course of Mixed tacos provided a taste for every meat-lover’s palate. The large wooden board was packed with an array of vibrant little piles of flavour on homemade corn tortillas, each looking more enticing than the last. Every morsel was an absolute delight, combining a perfect mix of tenderly cooked meat, fresh and pickled fruits and greens – all generously sprinkled with pungent, crisp herbs. It was difficult to choose a favourite, but the Shrimp taco with raw bean salsa took first prize.
Almost all of the dishes are eaten with your hands, meaning things can, and did, get a bit messy. However, cutlery is provided for those who’d like to avoid getting their hands dirty and juices dripping down their elbows.
The grand finale of dessert was a fusion of summery fruits and chocolate parfait with a dash of vanilla tequila to keep in tow with the good-humored vibe of the place, and on the note of liquor, they’ve got a short and sweet beverage list to help wash down all that deliciousness.
On offer are handfuls of fresh cocktails, chilled Mexican beers and/or a choice of throat-warming homemade tequilas, infused with cucumber, vanilla or ginger. I was reluctant to try the tequila until eventually coerced, by the very charming barmen, with the argument that lemon and salt as accompaniments to their top-notch tequilas would be a crying shame. Not wanting to pass up the honour, I dove right in sans tequila’s citrus and salty brethren, and much to my delight, the cucumber-infused brew went down an absolute treat.
Overall the food is simple, fresh and undeniably delicious. With margaritas upon arrival, a supper of perfect mini courses and a mid-meal tequila shot to keep things festive, Barburrito not only delivers on the premise of a great meal but a great evening out.
Barburrito
Skindergade 36, Cph K; 3586 1616, hola@barburrito.dk
Open: Mon-Wed 17:00-23:00, Thu 12:00-23:00, Fri-Sat 12:00-01:00
Cuisine: Mexican
Top Dish: Shrimp taco
Price Range: Dishes ranging from 39-78kr, set menu 280kr
www.barburrito.dk
