There’s something quietly thrilling about finding good Mexican food in London. For years, our city flirted with Tex-Mex clichés and supermarket guacamole, but now, finally things have changed.
From smoky tacos to sophisticated ceviches and expertly mixed margaritas, London’s Mexican scene is thriving, led by chefs who actually know their way around a tortilla press.
What’s exciting is how varied it’s become. You’ve got fine-dining experiences that treat Mexican cuisine with the same reverence as French gastronomy, and tiny taquerías run with pure passion, turning out some of the best tacos this side of Tijuana.
Whether you’re chasing the perfect carne asada taco, sipping mezcal by the river, or exploring the growing wave of modern Mexican fusion, these 10 restaurants show exactly why London’s Latin food scene has never tasted so good.
1. Chicome (St Katharine Docks)
First on the list is Chicome, a stunning Mexican-South American fusion restaurant overlooking the marina near Tower Bridge. With its sleek interior, warm lighting, and exceptional hospitality, Chicome has quickly become one of London’s most talked-about dining spots.
Guests rave about its vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, elegant enough for a date night but laid-back enough for a friendly catch-up.
The food is artfully presented and bursting with inventive flavours that balance authenticity with modern flair. The coconut and spicy margaritas are a particular favourite among regulars.
Why go: For an elevated Mexican dining experience in one of London’s most scenic locations.
2 St Katharine’s Way, London E1W 1AA, United Kingdom | chicome.co.uk
2. Santo Remedio (London Bridge, Shoreditch & Marylebone)
Santo Remedio feels like walking into someone’s home in Mexico City bright, bustling, and full of warmth. Owners Edson and Natalie Diaz-Fuentes have built a loyal following by focusing on honest, vibrant food made with Mexican ingredients and British produce.
Their guacamole is prepared tableside, the tacos are beautifully balanced, and every salsa tastes like it’s made moments before serving. The atmosphere hits that perfect sweet spot between casual and special.
Why go: For heartwarming, home-style cooking that captures the spirit of true Mexican hospitality.
152 Tooley St, London SE1 2TU | santoremedio.co.uk
3. El Pastor (London Bridge)
El Pastor sits right beside Borough Market and practically hums with energy. It’s from the team behind Barrafina, but here, the focus is squarely on tacos, and they do them right.
The tortillas are made fresh daily from heritage corn, and the fillings range from slow-cooked pork shoulder to chipotle chicken, all served with salsas that actually bite back. Grab a mezcal cocktail, squeeze in at the bar, and prepare for the kind of meal that demands a nap afterward.
Why go: For lively vibes, brilliant tacos, and the buzz of Borough Market.
7A Stoney St, London SE1 9AA | tacoselpastor.co.uk
4. KOL (Marylebone)
If you’ve ever wondered what fine-dining Mexican food looks like, KOL is the answer. Led by Chef Santiago Lastra, KOL redefines Mexican cuisine in a way that’s both rooted and revolutionary. Think deer tartare tacos, local seaweed mole, and agave spirits presented like fine wine.
It’s elegant, refined, and deeply personal, proof that Mexican cooking deserves a place at the top of London’s culinary scene. The service is impeccable without being stiff, and every plate tells a story.
Why go: When you’re after something unforgettable, a Michelin-starred experience that still feels human and heartfelt.
9 Seymour St, London W1H 7BA | kolrestaurant.com
5. Sonora Taqueria (Stoke Newington)
There’s a good reason Sonora Taqueria became a cult name long before it got a permanent site. What began as a humble street stall now stands as one of London’s most respected taco spots.
Their focus is North Mexican cooking, with signature goose-fat tortillas that taste unlike anything else in town. Every taco is made to order, filled with slow-grilled meats and vibrant, earthy flavours that transport you straight to Hermosillo.
Why go: For genuine, unpolished taco magic that reminds you why simplicity always wins.
208 Stoke Newington High St, London N16 7HU | sonorataqueria.com
6. La Chingada (Bermondsey)
If you’re after fun, loud, and gloriously messy, La Chingada delivers in spades. It’s unapologetically casual, the sort of place where you order a few tacos, grab a cold beer, and immediately feel at ease.
The food is straightforward and full of heart, cooked by people who clearly love what they do. Their vegetarian options are surprisingly strong too, proving you don’t need meat to enjoy big, bold Mexican flavour.
Why go: For a lively, no-fuss taquería that nails the essentials every single time.
182 Jamaica Road, SE16 4RT, London | lachingada.co.uk
7. Taquiza (Peckham Rye)
Down in Peckham, Taquiza has quietly built a reputation as one of South London’s coolest Mexican joints. Hidden under the railway arches, it’s part restaurant, part cocktail hangout, with a young, creative crowd and an open kitchen that sends out taco after taco.
The food is confident without trying too hard, think perfectly charred meats, punchy salsas, and a playlist that keeps the mood upbeat.
Why go: For a proper night out that blends food, music, and good company effortlessly.
115 Rye Ln, London SE15 4ST | taquiza.co.uk
8. Café Pacifico (Covent Garden)
An oldie but a goodie, Café Pacifico has been serving Londoners since 1982, long before tacos became trendy. It’s charmingly retro, with colourful walls, friendly service, and a menu that celebrates Mexican comfort food at its best.
It’s the sort of place where you can bring friends, share a few plates, and soak up the easygoing atmosphere that’s become increasingly rare in central London.
Why go: For a classic, feel-good experience that’s as dependable as it is delicious.
5 Langley St, London WC2H 9JA | cafe-pacifico.com
9. Hacha (Dalston & Bermondsey)
Hacha is where London’s tequila and mezcal lovers gather. Their signature “Mirror Margarita” is iconic, but the food holds its own light, bright plates like tostadas, tacos, and citrusy ceviches designed to complement the drinks.
It’s effortlessly cool without being pretentious, a testament to how modern Mexican culture is evolving in London.
Why go: For expertly mixed cocktails and a chic, easygoing dining experience.
378 Kingsland Rd, London E8 4AA | hachabar.com
10. Guacamoles
Rounding off our list is Guacamoles, a cheerful, fast-casual spot perfect for those midweek taco cravings. It’s simple, tasty, and consistently hits the spot, a great reminder that not every good meal has to be a grand occasion.
Expect warm tortillas, punchy fillings, and friendly faces behind the counter. It’s a local gem that’s all about flavour over fuss.
Why go: For quick, honest Mexican food done right, no frills, just great taste.
48 Rye Ln, London SE15 5BY | guacamoles.uk
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