In our regular series, we ask famous chefs and personalities to tell us all about 'their London'. From top tips on where to dine in the city, to their personal haunts ranging from bakeries to book shops, we’ve got the inside track on London’s premier spots from the people who know it best.
Over the last half a decade, there have been few more sought-after restaurants in London than Santiago Lastra’s KOL. As the only Mexican restaurant in the UK to hold a MICHELIN Star, it represents a new level for the popular cuisine, moving way beyond clichéd anglicised tacos into something altogether more thrilling. Lastra himself is a bold, inventive chef whose love of British ingredients is deeply felt when dining at KOL. With the opening of Fonda in 2024, he expanded his scope and is now introducing even more diners to the spectacular flavours of his homeland. Here, Lastra tells us his favourite spots for Mexican flavours, British ingredients and a proper celebration.
Which London restaurants are perfect for a night out with friends?
If I could say one of my restaurants, I’d say Fonda. I think the ambience, the music and the food are perfect for a night out. Also, Brat, with its good atmosphere, is perfect for a large group to share a big turbot and a chuleta with some great wine. If you feel like going a bit fancier for a celebration with friends, The River Café is always a good choice.You run London’s premier Mexican restaurant – where else do you think people can find great Mexican food in London?
Mexican food in London is getting better by the minute. For good Mexican restaurants, you need to pick places that make their own masa and tortillas; so apart from KOL and Fonda, I recommend everyone visit Sonora Taquería, Casa Pastor and Tacos Padre.
Are there any restaurants you feel a personal connection to?
Endo at The Rotunda. I love Japanese food and I try to go to Japan for inspiration every year. Chef Endo San does an amazing job bringing the memories of my trips to life and generating new ones.Which great London restaurant do you think has gone under the radar?
Kurisu Omakase in Brixton. Chef Chris Restrepo combines traditional Japanese techniques with influences from his Colombian heritage to create a unique experience – and it’s fun.
Do you have a favourite sustainable spot in the city?
Silo. I really admire how they are at the front of the zero-waste movement from the design to the food. I always learn something about sustainability when I go there.KOL is famous for its commitment to using British ingredients. Is there anywhere in London you recommend for buying produce?
It depends on where you are in London. In the west, I would recommend the Notting Hill Fish + Meat Shop and the Supermarket of Dreams. I think they’re my favourite shops for fish, meat and vegetables in London.
Which is your favourite London neighbourhood and why?
It’s a combination: I love Marylebone for walking around and going shopping; Mayfair and Soho for going out with friends; and Islington and Haggerston for staying in the neighbourhood and going to wine bars, pubs and independent restaurants.How would you characterise the London food scene of today?
I think London has the most exciting food scene in the world, and it’s getting better every day. There is a restaurant for every occasion, every mood and any style. The food is diverse and exciting, and the quality of the produce, chefs and hospitality is world-class. It is the best place in the world to live if you love food.
Do you have a favourite London hotel?
Claridge’s and The Connaught: the rooms and design are amazing, but especially their hospitality, food and beverage offerings are world-class.Find your hotel
How do you unwind after a busy day of work?
I like walking, stretching, meditation or yoga, as well as listening to classical music, taking a long shower and having a miso soup.What does London do better than anywhere else in the world?
I think the opportunity to create concepts and brands that can be original and successful. If you can make it in London, you can make it anywhere else in the world.Hero Image: Santiago Lastra, the chef-owner of MICHELIN-Star Mexican restaurant KOL in London. © Maureen Evans
