There’s a recently opened Mexican restaurant on Gloucester Road that is serving up tacos and margaritas, as well as a menu full of Mexican street food dishes, in a colourful venue full of local art.
Since opening in November last year, El Diablo already has a sizable following with fans including fellow local independent businesses and Bristol names – Bristol Bears’ Jake Heenan, graffiti artist Inkie, North Street bar and shop Spirited, and more are among followers liking posts on its Instagram page.
The El Diablo menu includes sharing plates, like the Diablitos (£8) – six mini patties of homemade corn tortilla dough rolled with oyster mushroom birria, crisp fried and topped with queso fresco and pico de gallo – as well as nachos (£9) and even an El Diablo Birria ‘pizza’ (£19.50). Tacos on the menu range from the beef brisket birria to pork carnitas, chicken tinga, baja fish, and oyster mushroom birria, with a deal of two for £9.50.
There’s also a ‘Diablo Favourites’ section of the menu, which includes the likes of croquetas, tostada, nopales salad, tortilla chips and salsa, and grilled corn, ranging in price from £4 to £6.50. You can even buy merch in the form of sew-on patches, and the venue showcases walls full of stunning artwork.
In January, El Diablo introduced a new lunchtime special, available between 12-5pm. The deal includes a quesadilla, birria dipping broth and soft drink for £9. It’s also offering a Valentine’s Day dessert and drinks special, including a homemade tiramisu tres leches cake from head chef Max, described as: “A pillowy sweet top layer of cream and milk over a coffee soaked sponge, dusted with Coco powder. Served with caramelised orange and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.”
Taking to the comments, one local said: “How have I only just discovered you guys? I need to come try soon!”
Another wrote: “Best in town! Get there now!” While a third commented: “Best margs I have ever tried… And I’m Mexican.”
You can find El Diablo at 39 Gloucester Road, BS7 8AD. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 5-9.30pm, and 12-8pm on Sunday.