Mayfair boasts some of the most exclusive and sought after restaurants, pick the right establishment and you are in for a a dining treat. El Norte brought to us from the Zandi Brothers has been on my bucket list for a while, after dining at their other three successful restaurants, I knew I would be in good hands at El Norte.

Signature dishes include truffle tortilla, creamy croquettes, Joselito Iberico Ham, cherry pistachio gazpacho and premium stone-cooked “Vaca Rubia Gallega” steak.

The menu showcases small and medium sized dishes, all of which look very appetising. We started off with the ham croquettes, which were mouth-watering and creamy, a dish I would happily order two of next time! Next up was the Fried Aubergine with honey and a sprinkling of feta. Coated in breadcrumbs, it had a nice crisp bite, and the honey brought the sweetness, which was a welcomed surprise.

Looking at the medium sized dishes on the menu, I also opted for the Monk Fish, which was cooked well, but it was my dining partner’s dish that caught my eye, the slow-cooked Red Wine ox cheek and Vanilla Mash. The ox cheek was rich, soft and tender, and for the more adventurous diner, the Vanilla mash brings an unusual flavour to the dish.

The dessert menu offers up both traditional and contemporary desserts, yes you will find churros on there, but I urge you to try the Hot Coulant of White Chocolate & Pistachio instead. Cut into the dessert and a flow of Pistachio sauce will come spilling out. It was sweet, decadent and the perfect ending to a delicious meal.

The restaurant includes a beautiful lounge on one side of the restaurant, offering up Spanish-crafted cocktails, Champagne, and Sangrias, where you can also enjoy a resident DJ playing electronic and Spanish sounds throughout the week.

Written by Nyla S.

Photos courtesy of El Norte