tchotchkie pepper

I attract marketing tchotchkies like lint.  Usually, they're pretty meaningless.  You could substitute any logo on the same old memory stick, yo yo, or traveler coffee mug. 

But, this one was kind of clever.  A new Mexican restaurant opened in London (a big deal in a city without many authentic Mexican options -- the last place we went literally served chips and humous).  Anyway, they have baskets at the door with what appear to be matchbooks.  On second look, they are filled with seeds to grow your own jalapeno peppers using your home compost.  What a great little way to showcase their fresh ingredient story.  And much more memorable than an oversized logo fleece.

Comments

[Beth Nori]

Haha... Chips and humous... did you go to Exquisito's on Fulham Road? I'm itching to go to Wahaca after all the hype it's been receiving. Did the food live up to the clever matchbooks?

[Tom Fishburne]

That's right, it was Exquisito's. We did like Wahaca. I still prefer some of my favorites South of Market in San Francisco, but it definitely satiated my Mexican cravings. Also, it's street-food Mexican, with sharing-size portions so you get to try a bunch of the menu. A bit greasy, but good. I'd avoid Crazy Homies in Notting Hill. Still want to try Taqueria.

[Turbo]

The most authentic mexican restaurant in London is on Stoke Newington Church st, called Mercado. We went on a Saturday night, it was busy and the food was amazing, real authentic chillis and burritos and yummy mojitos. And then at eleven they took all the empty tables up and started dancing in the middle of the floor. Of course you have to get through Hackney to arrive at it, so pack a stab-vest.

[Beth Nori]

Alright, I'll have to try some of the options mentioned here. I'm on a mission for good Mexican food! Have you been to Mexicali (also on Fulham Road)? It's good, fast, and inexpensive. Not bad for a quick meal.