Mexican cuisine is a favourite among Britons, and for those seeking an upmarket dining experience, KOL in Marylebone, London, stands out as the UK's only Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant. Helmed by Chef Patron Santiago Lastra, formerly of the Noma Mexico pop-up, KOL champions a 'Mexican soul, British ingredients' philosophy. The kitchen employs traditional Mexican techniques but relies almost entirely on British seasonal produce, resulting in inventive alternatives such as substituting sea buckthorn for lime to provide acidity.
The Dining Experience
Meals are primarily served through a multi-course tasting menu, featuring a selection of two sharing mains, typically carnitas (confit pork cheek) or grilled octopus. The langoustine taco, presented with smoked chilli and sea buckthorn, is widely regarded as the signature dish. The establishment also houses a dedicated bar focusing on agave spirits and offering Mexican street food-inspired bites known as antojitos.
Influencer Visit Goes Viral
One Instagram influencer, known as 'Hand Luggage Only', documented their visit in a post that went viral. The reel showcased the interior and the cuisine, with overlay text stating, 'This is the only Michelin star Mexican restaurant in the UK. It is ranked the 17th best restaurant in the world.' The reviewer sampled the 11-course tasting menu, priced at £145 per head.
- The meal began with a 'comforting' chilpachole, a traditional thick seafood soup built on chipotle and layered chillies.
- This was followed by a 'theatrical' beef short rib quesadilla, wrapped around the bone, enriched with truffles, cep purée, plum salsa, and xnipec, where 'richness met brightness in every bite'.
- Next came a 'beautifully balanced' ceviche of hand-dived scallop and Beluga caviar, lifted with horseradish, rhubarb, lovage, and sea lettuce, described as 'sharp, clean, and quietly luxurious'.
- Further courses included tacos filled with Isle of Skye langoustine, Wagyu huarache, and a mushroom pozole.
- Among the sweet offerings were a squash-based paleta standing in for mango, alongside crisp buñuelos served with Tunworth ice cream.
Public Reaction
The post amassed over 5,000 likes from enthusiastic followers. One delighted commenter exclaimed, 'Oh my God, I'm going next week, I'm so excited!' Another gushed, 'This looks so delicious!' A third reader, who had previously visited the restaurant, declared it was 'one of their favourites'.
