Barrio (Spanish for ‘neighbourhood’) is so-called because it’s pitched as a neighbourhood bar in the style of Spanish bodegas in London. But if you came from Harlem (or you’re just really worldly), you’d know that ‘barrio’ also refers to a Hispanic ghetto. Which is excellent news, because it gives Barrio a great excuse for some sizzling Latino music and fun decor. Of course, Barrio doesn’t really look like a ghetto – it looks much cleaner, richer and happier, with reclaimed allsorts creating a kaleidoscopic decor of mismatched tiles, flower garlands, and even a stripped-out vintage caravan, which the owners bought from eBay. And like any self- respecting ghetto, there’s eye-catching graffiti, while the barmen, well-versed in all things Latino, mix a mean mojito. Weekdays see an influx of older, after-work crowds thirsty for cocktails, while on the weekends it’s the turn of younger revellers, who descend to knock back shots of cachaca and enjoy DJs spinning Latin-infused house. And there’s more tequilas, Caipirinhas, late-night DJs and ghetto-chic decor at its new sister bars Barrio Central in Soho (6 Poland St; +44 20 3230 1002 www.barriocentral.com) and Barrio East in Shoreditch (141-143 Shoreditch High Street; +44 20 7749 3940). Low socio-economic status is, like, sooo exotic!