Wahaca: A Veganuary Delight in the Heart of Brighton
As the vibrant energy of Brighton dances through the streets, there’s a place that not only captures the spirit of Mexican street food but also celebrates the art of sustainability and culinary innovation. Wahaca, the beloved Mexican street food restaurant nestled in the heart of Brighton, has long been a beacon for those seeking a delightful fusion of flavours, a laudable commitment to sustainability, and a vibrant, inviting atmosphere. Our annual visit to Wahaca for Veganuary proved to be a fantastical journey through a tapestry of plant-based delights and tantalizing, innovative cocktails.
Wahaca has always been a cherished destination for us, a place where the commitment to sustainability is not just a buzzword, but a way of life. Their new plant-based special and vegan set menu, tailored perfectly for Veganuary, beckoned us with the promise of exploring Mexican flavours through a delightful plant-based lens. As we delved into the menu, we were greeted with a plethora of tantalizing dishes, each a testament to the creativity and dedication of the culinary team.
The adventure began with the Smoky Sonoran Hummus and Homemade Tortilla Chips, a harmonious prelude to the feast that lay ahead. The hummus, a smouldering tribute to Mexican flavours, danced elegantly on our palates, setting the stage for what was to come.
Our journey continued with the Ancho Mushroom Tacos, bursting with smoky spices, a testament to the artistry of Mexican cuisine, followed by the tantalizing Plantain Tacos, each bite a crescendo of flavours that left us craving more. The Black Bean & Vegan Cheese Quesadilla, a testament to the craft of plant-based indulgence, wove a tale of richness and satisfaction, while the crunchy breaded Plant-Based Chicken & Avocado Tacos offered a surprising realistic flavour and texture that left us spellbound!
The Zesty Bean Tostadas, a vibrant celebration of flavours, and the slightly charred Seasonal Greens, a verdant ode to freshness, added depth and balance to our culinary sojourn, a dish I might normally have as a side, yet they were so crisp and packed with flavour I would happily eat a bowl full of them. Each delicious dish, a testament to Wahaca’s mastery of Mexican street food, bore the mark of sustainability.
To complement our culinary journey, we ventured into the realm of non-alcoholic cocktails, both of us plumping for a Blackberry Sour, a creation shaken with aquafaba, basil, apple cider vinegar, avocado leaf, and rosemary, which proved to be a revelation. Its luxuriously smooth texture and satisfying sharpness spoke volumes about the artistry of the mixologists at Wahaca. This non-alcoholic libation beautifully captured the essence of a traditional cocktail, making it a perfect choice for those seeking the complexity of flavours without a drop of alcohol.
As a delightful gesture to welcome the new year, Wahaca has extended an invitation to raise a glass to the future. Throughout January, visitors can be treated to the Blackberry Sour on the house, by redeeming a voucher at www.wahaca.co.uk/try-our-cocktails-on-us, a delightful token of appreciation for those embarking on Veganuary or seeking to explore the world of non-alcoholic libations. This thoughtful gesture is coupled with an array of boozier options, including the Basil Mezcalita, Passion Fruit Vanilla Mojito, Pineapple Mezcal Sour, and Picante Margarita.
In the heart of Brighton, Wahaca stands not only as a purveyor of exceptional Mexican street food but also as a torchbearer of sustainability, culinary innovation, and inclusivity. Our Veganuary visit to Wahaca was a testament to their unwavering dedication to crafting memorable experiences and pushing the boundaries of culinary artistry. As the flavours of Mexico mingled with the warmth of Brighton, Wahaca proved once again why it stands as a beacon of delight for all.
Tony Shattell
