KOL

KOL, in London’s Marylebone, is arguably the city’s finest Mexican establishment at the moment. Chef Patron Santiago Lastra – awarded Best Chef at the GQ Food and Drink Awards in 2021 – is behind it, and the focus is on heritage, craftsmanship, and nature; “Mexican soul, with British ingredients.”

Before London, Lastra worked with Andoni Luis Aduriz at Mugaritz and René Redzepi at Noma (during its Mexico residency). Following KOL’s opening in 2020, the restaurant immediately made it onto The World’s 50 Best list, reaching the No. 17 spot in 2024, the same year receiving its first Michelin star. The dining room is wholesome and warm in earthy colours, with leather and wood furnishings. An à la carte and tasting menu are available, offering everything from lobster tacos to grilled meat, and some of the purest seafood you will taste – the food is innovative and delicious, with great use of spice.

A table should be booked very well in advance!

The wine list is focused on smaller independent producers and champions central and eastern European countries. The Mezcal and cocktail lists are worth exploring too; there’s even a Mezcal pairing menu should you should feel so inclined.