Candelaria
Mexican restaurant · Enfants Rouges ·
Creative tacos & classic cocktails in a hidden speakeasy
Creative tacos & classic cocktails in a hidden speakeasy
"You think you’re walking up to this taqueria in the Marais for simple tacos and frozen margaritas at the counter. But shimmy past the barstools, and through the white door into Candelaria. It’s a dimly lit speakeasy that’s full of comfy banquettes and bar stools, and focuses on agave cocktails that may sound weird at first but work, like the Stay Puft with tequila, marshmallow, and absinthe. Because you can’t live on tequila alone, there are solid small bites, and the same barbacoa and asada-filled tacos from up front (though they’re slightly more expensive). The music gets louder as the night goes on, and some dancing may break out—you could end up being here all night. " - tanisha townsend
"You literally walk up to a «hole in the wall» in order to discover a tiny taco station that is the front for a great cocktail bar in the back. There is a really distinct contrast between the two areas: fluorescent lights, bare countertops and a kitchen for the eatery and a dimly lit, relaxing setting behind the taqueria. The margaritas are strong and have that Mexican spicy salt along the edges of the glass. The cocktails are artisanal and very tasty. The staff is friendly and give you recommendations on cocktails that will suit your taste. The place is usually crowded so try getting there early." - Say What Studio
"A 2011 speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a taco counter in the Haut-Marais that helped popularize a more authentic taco culture in Paris and became a touchstone for the city’s early Mexican food renaissance." - Vivian Song
"You think you’re walking up to this taqueria in the Marais for simple tacos and frozen margaritas at the counter. But shimmy past the barstools, and through the white door into Candelaria. It’s a dimly lit speakeasy that’s full of comfy banquettes and bar stools, and focuses on agave cocktails that may sound weird at first but work, like the Stay Puft with tequila, marshmallow, and absinthe. Because you can’t live on tequila alone, there are solid small bites, and the same barbacoa and asada-filled tacos from the taqueria up front (though they’re slightly more expensive). The music gets louder as the night goes on, and some dancing may break out—you could end up being here all night. photo credit: Caspar Miskin photo credit: Caspar Miskin photo credit: Caspar Miskin Pause Unmute" - Tanisha Townsend
"Since opening in 2011 in the Marais, La Candelaria has established itself as a benchmark in the world of cocktails in Paris and beyond. To enter the bar proper, you go behind the taqueria, which serves tacos and quesadillas, and through a side door into an inviting space with white stone walls and low lighting, where an extensive collection of spirits is displayed behind a large bar. All the house classics are there for the drinking, from the Guêpe Verte ('Green Wasp') – tequila with chilli, cucumber and coriander – to the Spano – pisco with elderflower and fermented grapes. Don't hesitate to order one of the menu's mocktails, which are particularly convincing." - The MICHELIN Guide
