Desperados is a lively Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar located close to Islington Green, within easy walking distance of the Angel Underground Station. If you are looking for a fun night out where you can share a joke with friendly staff and enjoy great food and cocktails, then Desperados could be the perfect choice.

The Venue
Desperados is decorated with a mixture of Mexican and American influences, with sombreros adorning the walls alongside colorful paintings and adverts. After sampling a margarita or two you may feel your eyes are deceiving you when you see the playful artwork in the bathrooms. The venue is cosy to say the least with groups of friends crowded onto large tables, but this adds to its unique charm.

The Atmosphere
Guests receive a genuine warm welcome here. The many photographs on display of diners having a great time with staff are a clear indication of Desperado’s informal style. Even on busy evenings staff often entertain diners with their own unique take on famous songs, accompanied by bongos and guitars. Although outside seating is available, dining at Desperados, which is a great venue for any celebration, is best experienced inside.

The Food
There is a great deal of choice on the menu here and the lunchtime and evening tapas specials provide an inexpensive way of enjoying good food. Typical Tex-Mex cuisine – burritos, fajitas and tacos are offered in meat, fish or vegetarian form accompanied by fresh salad. Large seafood dishes, such as the chilli mussels in tomato sauce are full of flavour and the sizzling meat dishes appear to be a specialty. The mixed platters are huge and are great to share while enjoying a Mexican beer or cocktail from the extensive range of drinks here. The dessert menu offers tasty but limited options although the chances are you could be too full up to even glance at it after your main meal.

The Drink
The cocktail list is large to say the least, taking up half the entire menu, making this venue a viable option for those out to enjoy a drink on Islington’s busy Upper Street. The drinks here come in strong measures and are served with style. Beer and spirit prices are average for this area.

The Last Word
Booking a table here is recommended for evening dining, although the staff here will try their hardest to accommodate guests. The buzzing atmosphere, loud music and large food portions certainly make up for the lack of space and ensure Desperados is an ideal venue for a memorable night out.

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