This colourful casual taqueria inside the Factory on Grant on Norwood’s main strip Grant Avenue started out as a market stall. Owned and run by husband and wife team Dave and Katrin Smale, Baha Taco specialises in Mexican street food.

Dave’s interest in Mexican food was sparked while living in California. He then spent some time in the UK where he met his wife and together they decided to bring Mexican food to Brighton. Their first foray was a six-month stint running a Mexican takeaway joint on the Palace Pier, which led to starting a restaurant which they ran for 11 years.

Back in South Africa Baha Taco appeared first at markets and festivals, gaining popularity, before finding a permanent home in the friendly and diverse suburb of Norwood. 

You’ll find a cheerful and welcoming interior with Dave always at the counter serving up freshly pressed gluten-free corn tortillas filled with delicious ingredients that include fresh salsa and choices of chicken, pulled pork, skirt steak, prawn or haloumi and re-fried beans, all full of spicy and fresh goodness.

The cheesy quesadillas are utterly moreish and there are a few variations, including one with re-fried beans, and a mushroom, pepper and jalapeno version. If hot is your preference, you’ll need to order the stuffed and beer-battered jalapeno poppers. There’s also a daily specials menu.

Ingredients are locally sourced to ensure you get free-range and hormone-free food. Fish choices are consciously from the sustainable list.

This is a cutlery-free zone, and a really casual spot. Check out the menu on the chalkboard and order at the counter. Ordering by item works best as the tacos are filling. The nachos are fresh and tasty as a starter (you’ll get some corn chips as a welcome starter too) but beware of filling up on them. It would be a real shame to not leave space for the exceptional churros (freshly made fried dough pastry) accompanied by velvety dark chocolate sauce.