When it comes to Mexican food, there’s a certain kind of magic you hope for. A lively buzz, bold flavours, and just the right amount of chaos to keep it feeling authentic. I was hoping that Morena, Folkestone’s hot topic in the restaurant scene, would deliver all of that and then some. I’d been hearing whispers—well, more like full-on shouts—about this place for ages. So on a crisp December evening, I finally decided to make the leap and see if Morena lives up to the hype.
Bustling Atmosphere, Bold Ambience
First off, let’s talk atmosphere. Morena’s got it nailed. This isn’t one of those softly lit, hushed dining spots where you feel like you’ve wandered into someone’s romantic anniversary dinner. No, this is a celebration of Mexican cuisine in full technicolour glory. The open kitchen was bustling, the smells were intoxicating, and the energy was infectious. Exactly what you want from a proper Mexican eatery.
The decor is a cool take on your usual Mexican restaurant, with calaveras—those brightly coloured skulls that celebrate the Day of the Dead—a prominent feature. It’s vibrant, fun, and perfectly in keeping with the lively, welcoming vibe of the place.
“We are keeping it simple; good food, good vibe, at a reasonable price,” says owner of Morena, Firat Yildirim. Speaking to him, it’s impossible not to feel his enthusiasm and passion for the restaurant. When I asked about the origin of the name Morena, which means brunette in Spanish, he told me it was a very personal thing.
“The name Morena comes from one of my favourite places in Calpe, Spain, where I used to go regularly. It’s a place where the sun, sea, and good food come together and make you feel really good.” That sense of joy and connection clearly inspires everything about the restaurant, from the food to the atmosphere.
Stellar Service with a Smile
The staff? Exceptional. They hit that perfect sweet spot of being attentive without hovering over you like a helicopter parent. Friendly, warm, and genuinely enthusiastic about the food—it’s the kind of service that makes you feel right at home.
“One thing I am proud of about Morena,” said Firat, “is definitely my staff team, who believed in me to make the business a success, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without them.”
Fantastic Food, Freshly Prepared
Now, let’s get to the food. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little gutted to be dining solo. Mrs FF was off gallivanting at a Christmas party, so instead of being able to sample more dishes and share the load, I had to tackle the menu alone. And believe me, that’s no small feat when everything on it screams “EAT ME NOW.” But someone’s got to do the hard work for Folkestone Foodies readers, right?
I kicked things off with a complimentary bowl of olives (a classy touch, Morena), paired with a bottle of Argentinian Malbec. Now, before you start rolling your eyes at the wine chat, let me just say: this wasn’t some poncey plonk. The Los Picos Distantes had a beautiful depth, with blackberry and blueberry flavours, hints of peppery spice, and a cocoa finish that paired perfectly with the richness of the dishes. Smooth, satisfying, and just what you want to sip on while diving into Mexican delights.
A Start to Savour: Barbacoa Empanadas
For starters, I went with the Barbacoa Empanadas, and ay caramba, they were a revelation! Barbacoa, for the uninitiated, is a traditional Mexican cooking method where meat is slow-cooked over an open fire or in a pit, often with maguey leaves, to achieve tender, flavourful perfection. Typically made with beef, lamb, or goat, it’s rich, smoky, and packed with spices like cumin and chilli.
The empanadas were pure perfection, with a crisp, golden batter encasing a rich and smoky beef filling, served with a clearly homemade tomato salsa that burst with fresh, vibrant flavours, the kind that only comes from perfectly ripe ingredients. You can also choose from beef chilli, pulled pork, chicken and chorizo along with vegetarian and vegan fillings, but I highly recommend the barbacoa beef. A fabulous start!
Mains That Mean Business: Pulled Pork Enchiladas
Next came the pulled pork enchiladas, served with rice, sour cream, and guacamole. This dish was indulgent and beautifully balanced. The pork was sweet, tender, and dripping with flavour, topped with gooey cheese that melted into the rich sauce. I love how Mexican food uses fresh, simple ingredients to balance bold, hearty flavours. The guacamole and sour cream added a perfect touch of freshness and zing, cutting through the richness beautifully. It was one of those dishes where you’re full halfway through but keep going because it’s too good to leave a single bite behind.
Sweet Endings: Churros & Cocktails
But did I stop there? Absolutely not. For the sake of journalism (and maybe just a touch of greed), I pushed on to dessert. The churros were everything you want from this Mexican classic. Light, crispy, and dusted with just the right amount of cinnamon, they came with both chocolate and caramel sauces because why choose when you can have it all? Dipping those golden sticks of joy into the sauces was the perfect finale to an already stellar meal.
And because no meal is truly complete without a cocktail, I rounded things off with a classic mojito. Fresh mint, zingy lime, and just the right amount of rum—it was a bright, refreshing end to the evening. Each sip was like a tiny fiesta in a glass, with all the ingredients popping beautifully.
Final Verdict: Viva Morena!
So, does Morena live up to the hype? Absolutely. It’s a vibrant, flavour-packed slice of Mexico right in the heart of Folkestone. Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just someone looking for a cracking night out, this place should be high on your list. I’ll definitely be back—next time with Mrs FF in tow—because there’s a whole lot more on that menu I’m itching to try. Viva Morena!
Booking is recommended, especially at the weekends. You can book online via their website or call 01303 311958 to make a reservation.
