Taco Wars

A long time ago, in a merchants yard far far away...Dalston to be precise - a battle was about to commence. The prize - who will be crowned the best taco in London. Organised by the guys at Tweat Up, Taco Wars is the first event of the summer, following the success of the Chilli Stand-Off back in Novemeber (that i unfortunately couldnt make) *sad face*

Over the past 18 months, central American cuisine has exploded all over the capital thanks to places such as Wahaca, La Bodega Negra, Cerviche and Lima. So what better time to bring 10 of the finest street food stalls, pop-ups and restaurants together  paired with ice-cold liquid refreshments courtesy of a personal favourite, Rotary Bar & Diner.

Let the battle commence...

Eating and voting - easy at first...

 Next one...

Ice-cold beers and fiery tacos - the perfect combination

This one was a strong favourite by Kimchinary - an unconventional Korean taco bursting with the flavours of east meets west. Slow-brased ox cheeks, soju and gochujang battered cod cheeks, Korean pickle, kimchi, and toasted seaweed. Yum!

 Imperial BBQ was a Vietnamese inspired taco...

 Another one? Go on then!

These hot sauce capsules were a great touch for those who enjoy the bun! Wish i'd pocketed a handful of these badboys!

Entertainment was provided throughout the day by a mariachi band who were excellent - just dont ask them to play 'that song off the Doritos advert'

Rotary Bar did a good job of keeping everybody hydrated throughout the day offering pint-sized cocktails, ice-cold beers and sneaky helpings of mezcal from the margarita mixing machine.

Could this guy look anymore sinister? 

Posing with our mezcal - it all went downhill from here...

Dessert was provided by Sorbitum, a local ice cream company whose creations and concoctions are to die for. Adam and I were torn between the avacado and lime, and the dark chocolate, chipotle and rasin - so we both had a scoop of each! Naturally!! 

We stumbled across a hideaway where the mariachi band was hanging out and had an impromptu sing-a-long to numbers by Johnny Cash, the Killers, the Beatles...

Julie's thinking of joining the band

We were having so much fun we nearly missed the crowing of the winner!!

The votes are in...

And the winner is... 

Luardos!! Well done guys! Though, I have to be honest after all the beers, cocktails and mezcal, i cant remember what it tasted like but i'm sure it was definitely worthy of the title.

Tweat Up put on a great day, we didnt want to go home - so we headed up the Kingsland Road for a couple more before hopping on the train home.

May the sauce be with you!

To keep up to date with the latest shenanigans you can follow @Tweat_Up on Twitter or visit www.tweatup.co.uk