London is renowned for its cultural diversity, and its thriving Latin American restaurant scene is no exception. From mouthwatering Colombian comfort food to fusion delights blending Peruvian and Japanese cuisines, London offers a vibrant culinary journey through Latin America. Here’s a guide to some of the best Latin restaurants in the city, highlighting standout choices such as Blankita, Donde Carlos, and Leñas y Carbon.
Blankita: Authentic Colombian Delights
Nestled in the bustling Seven Sisters Market (Unit 6-7, 231 High Rd, London N15 5BT), Blankita is a humble restaurant but captures the heart and soul of Colombian home cooking. This lively eatery serves up hearty dishes such as beef tongue in a fruity yellow sauce, perfectly grilled steak or pork accompanied by rice and crispy plantains. Don’t miss out on their empanadas served with a zesty red chili salsa—an absolute must-try for a genuine taste of Colombia.
Donde Carlos: West London’s Colombian Gem
Situated at 143 Goldhawk Road, London W12 8EN, Donde Carlos provides a cosy and casual setting ideal for exploring robust Colombian flavours. Known for its generous portions, the restaurant’s standout dishes include bandeja paisa—a hearty platter of meats, rice, beans, and plantain—alongside fresh, hot empanadas and perfectly grilled arepas. It’s a go-to spot for authentic Colombian meals in West London.
Leñas y Carbon: A Taste of Colombia in Elephant and Castle
At 67 Newington Causeway, London SE1 6BD, Leñas y Carbon has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike, celebrated for its classic Colombian grill dishes. The restaurant serves up succulent grilled meats, traditional arepas, and crispy empanadas, all made fresh and bursting with flavour. Whether dining in or ordering delivery, Leñas y Carbon promises a delightful culinary experience.
Explore More Latin American Flavours in London
Zuaya: This chic Kensington spot (35B Kensington High St, London W8 5EB) features a delicious fusion of Peruvian, Mexican, Argentinian, and Brazilian dishes, offering delicacies like seabass ceviche and Argentinian sirloin with chimichurri.
Amazónico London: Located in the heart of Mayfair (10 Berkeley Square, London W1J 6BR), Amazónico offers a unique fusion of Latin American and Asian influences with Brazilian dishes, Peruvian sushi, and vibrant cachaça cocktails in a jungle-themed décor.
Paladar: A standout gluten-free restaurant at 4-5 London Rd, SE1 6JZ, Paladar specializes in dishes like ceviche and grilled chimichurri prawns, complemented by a curated selection of South American wines.
LIMA Fitzrovia & LIMA Cantina: These Peruvian establishments, located in Fitzrovia (31 Rathbone Pl, W1T 1JH) and Covent Garden (14 Garrick St, WC2E 9BJ), offer a refined taste of Peru, from Michelin-starred ceviches to traditional pollo a la brasa.
INCA London: Offering live entertainment and fusion cuisine at 8-9 Argyll St, W1F 7TF, INCA presents dishes such as seared salmon tiradito and premium wagyu beef.
Gaucho Piccadilly: Famous for its Argentinian steaks, Gaucho at 25 Swallow St, W1B 4QR, delivers prime cuts and authentic Latin flavours in a sophisticated setting.
Sucre London & El Pollote: Explore the creative blend of Latin, Spanish, and Italian influences at Sucre (47b Great Marlborough St, W1F 7JP), or indulge in gluten-free street food at Soho’s El Pollote (13 Ganton St, W1F 9BL).
SUSHISAMBA & Chotto Matte: These restaurants (110 Bishopsgate, EC2N 4AY and 11-13 Frith St, W1D 4RB, respectively) offer innovative Japanese-Peruvian-Brazilian fusion dishes like samba rolls and robata-grilled delicacies.
Lupita, Barraco & Rodizio Nabrasa: From Mexican street food at Lupita (13-15 Villiers St, WC2N 6ND) to authentic Brazilian dishes at Barraco (10 Kingsgate Rd, NW6 4TB) and churrascaria experiences at Rodizio Nabrasa (505 Garratt Lane, SW18 4SW), London serves up a vibrant array of Latin culinary traditions.
Taqueria, Senor Ceviche & Mi Cocina Es Tuya: Round out your exploration with Taqueria’s tacos (141-142 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RS), Senor Ceviche’s signature dishes in Kingly Court, and authentic Venezuelan arepas at Mi Cocina Es Tuya (61 Westow St, SE19 3RW).
London’s Latin American restaurants promise a vibrant journey filled with authentic flavours, diverse traditions, and unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you crave comforting Colombian fare or adventurous fusion creations, the capital offers something uniquely enticing for every palate.
