An intimate late night basement bar beneath popular Green and Red transports you to modern Mexico City after a margarita or two.

The Venue
Green and Red is located near to the main stretch of Shoreditch, a short walk along Bethnal Green Road. Chamucos is a separate venue-within-a-venue late night basement bar beneath this already popular Mexican eaterie.

Descending down Green and Red's stairs into Chamucos, you'll find a winding space with plenty of places to lounge on low-to-the-ground, light brown leather seats. There is also a secret area tucked away at the end of the room with two alcoves - one lit up in green and the other in red. The difference from the restaurant and bar upstairs is apparent as soon as you walk down the stairs, with the decor moving away from the traditional, simple lines of the cantina, to wild graffiti and sexy lighting.

The Atmosphere
Its off centre location means Chamucos is never as rammed as most of the high street bars in the area on a Friday night. Therefore, the staff put the emphasis on quality over quantity with both drinks and service. This is a place for parties and dates, as you can make your own space and not have to constantly jostle for position. Not to say the atmosphere suffers because this bar always keeps things warm and raucous. A young crowd predominately in their twenties head along to hear Latin tunes alongside those looking to dance and warm up with a few tequilas before heading further into Shoreditch. The late night licence means the crowd can stay on right until 2am.

The Music
The music here is authentic, with DJs offering modern Latin sounds played in the clubs of Central America mixed, of course, with Shoreditch broken beats. Regular nights include Get Sweaty with DJ dannyb, La Fieston with DJ Futuristica, and El Scorpio with DJ Stuart Royall. As it is with Latino music, the beat is infectious and you’ll find yourself shimmying your way to the bar to Favela funk or Brazilian beats. There is also a proper salsa session on Monday nights that kicks off with a free half hour class for beginners at 7pm.

The Drink
If you feel like a refreshing cocktail this is a great place to go. Reassuringly specialist, the cocktail menu is full of original creations from all over the world, which look and taste great. There are no less than six different margaritas on offer, including the delicious pomegranate version at £6.70. The Lager-ita is also a popular thirst-quencher. However, any tequila fan will have to push the boat out and try the silver Ultra Platinum tequila Platino from Jose Cuervo. It costs £15 a shot but is a truly smooth sensation. With over 100 different tequilas available you should maybe plan your route home, too. Drink them straight, without the salt and lemon to really appreciate the flavour.

The Last Word
This club space is a worthy addition to the Shoreditch scene with an unrivalled tequila menu. An authentic take on Mexican nightlife in the heart of East London.

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