Mexican restaurant brings 'Day of the Dead' to life

Benito’s Hat will put a uniquely Mexican spin on Hallowe’en celebrations this year at its New Row and Goodge Street restaurants with an array of festive treats to celebrate Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead.

Taking place on November 2nd, Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday celebrating the lives of the dead, with traditions dating back to Aztec times. Food forms a central part of these celebrations, and Benito’s Hat will be bringing some of that Mexican flavour to London with the launch of a number of special Day of the Dead dishes, which will join its renowned menu of burritos and margaritas.

From Saturday 30th October, Benito’s Hat will offer a range of Dia de los Muertos specialities, including Felipe’s famous pork and vegetable tamales, Vampiro cocktails, and a Day of the Dead sample plate, featuring nachos with all the trimmings, cheese and spinach quesadillas, and potato Taquitos, served with Salsa Verde and Guacamole. Traditional Day of the Dead speciality, Pan de Muerto – a sweet bread, dipped Churros-style in a rich chocolate sauce, will also be on offer, and will be complimentary to customers dining on 2nd November.

The Vampiro cocktail is Mexico’s answer to the Bloody Mary – a zesty mix of citrus juices, tomato juice, agave syrup, a little spice, and that all-important measure of tequila. The cocktail will be £7, but available at 2-for-1 throughout Day of the Dead. The full recipe is as follows:

100% Blue Agave Tequileño Tequila
Tomato Juice
Freshly-squeezed orange juice
Freshly-squeezed lime juice
A squeeze of pure agave syrup
A touch of tabasco
Two dashes of Worcestershire sauce
Salt to garnish
Serve over ice.

Benito’s Hat Mexican Kitchen, 19 New Row, Covent Garden, WC2N 4LA
Opening times: Sun - Wed 11:30-22:00, Thurs - Sat 11:30-23:00

Benito’s Hat Mexican Kitchen, 56 Goodge Street, W1T 4NB
Opening times: Sun - Wed 11:30-22:00, Thurs - Sat 11:30-23:00

For more information, visit: benitos-hat.com