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New Latin American food venture launches in Harrogate

Wednesday, 2 September 2026 08:20

Viva el Picante has launched in Harrogate.

A new Latin American-inspired food brand has launched in Harrogate.

Viva el Picante has been created as a sister business to The Harrogate Kebab Co, offering tacos, churros, loaded mac and cheese and other dishes.

Its signature dish is a birria beef taco made using beef shin cooked for 12 hours in a Mexican-style stew with guajillo and árbol chillies.

The meat is served in tacos with melted cheese and a rich consommé for dipping.

A vegan alternative features pulled seitan made from scratch and served with vegan cheese, fresh toppings and guacamole.

The menu will also include freshly cooked churros coated in cinnamon sugar and served with dipping sauces, hot honey chicken tacos and loaded mac and cheese.

Founder Paul Baron said the brand was inspired by his love of Latin American food, music, art and culture.

He said:

“We want it to be colourful, fun and full of personality, but above everything else, the food has to be incredible.”

Paul was the original creator of i am Doner, which began in Yorkshire before expanding to London, Dubai and Toronto.

He later established The Harrogate Kebab Co, which will continue operating alongside the new venture.

Paul said:

“The Harrogate Kebab Co isn’t going anywhere — Viva el Picante will be its new sister brand, operating alongside it and giving us the chance to do something completely different.

“The long-term dream is for Viva to eventually have a home of its own — a lively taco, tequila and music bar where the food, music, art and atmosphere all come together.

“For now, though, we just can’t wait to meet you and let Harrogate taste what we’ve been working on.”

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