Who doesn’t like a summer pop-up to bring some frivolity to hardworking Londoners? There is plenty of competition around between bars to bring the most exotic and colourful experience possible to their guests. Sometimes, these pop-ups do come across as slightly artificial; however that definitely isn’t the case for La Terraza at Number 90 bar.
La Terraza is a Mexican pop-up terrace bar at Number 90 Bar and Kitchen in Hackney Wick. Number 90 itself is already an extremely popular and hip drinking and dining venue for local residents housed in a cavernous warehouse. It has a stunning graffiti wall as part of the main entrance.
When you head to La Terraza, what is immediately evident is nothing feels unnatural. They have used mostly recycled material to form the bar and terrace space. It feels summery, relaxed and blends seamlessly into the natural environment. The canal is so close to you, you could feel like you are virtually floating on water. It also overlooks the Copper box arena at the Olympic Park.
They have an eclectic list of activities on different days of the night including DJ nights, open air screenings (although space does look tight for this) and even yoga classes. There are plans to even have their own barge soon to take customers on imbibing journeys along the canal.
The food might be stereotypical Mexican street food but it is the ideal type of food to enjoy on a warm summer’s night relaxing on the banks of the canal. They have healthy Mexican salads, tacos, tortillas, nachos and quesadillas; it might not be mind-blowingly original dishes, but they were all of a high standard.
It might be marginally cringeworthy but the bar staff do wear a Mexican sombrero and might occasionally make an attempt at a Mexican accent. However, all is forgiven if you end up going on a Saturday or Sunday when they offer their bottomless Margarita offer for £20. They have some thirst quenching offerings such as frozen passionfruit, strawberry or classic tommy margaritas. Of course, tequila and Mexican beer fans are well catered for as well.
It is precisely places like La Terraza that makes Hackney such a vibrant area for artists, independent-minded restaurant and bar owners. All they need now is just for the rain gods to stay away from the area and it will be the perfect summer venue.
baldwin@townfish.com