In an ideal location and with an admirable emphasis on genuine Latin authenticity, Las Iguanas gets it pretty much spot on.

The Venue
Located on Festival Walk, Las Iguanas is never likely to struggle for passing trade as visitors to the Royal Festival Hall spill out to be met with an attractive and enticing facade. Inside is stylish and comfortable, and continues the Latin vibe that plays such an important role in making Las Iguanas a pleasant little retreat away from London’s hustle and bustle. In fact it’s almost easy to forget you’re in a hectic city.

The floor mirrors the Copacabana sidewalk (the mosaic slates were individually laid by hand) and there’s an abundance of stone, wood and glass that makes the restaurant feel seductively authentic. The venue itself is incredibly spacious, with a large downstairs area that sit under two railway arches. The glass frontage to the upstairs makes it feel larger still, and of course offers views out over Royal Festival Hall and towards the Thames.

The Atmosphere
As befitting somewhere that aims to bring Latin America to London, Las Iguanas has a vibrant atmosphere fostered by bubbly staff, funky beats and a relaxed and friendly feel. Its proximity to a number of attractions means that daytimes play host to a diverse clientele; expect to find anything from families and tourists to nearby workers. Evenings welcome a fair share of suits from the many media offices nearby, so it’s not perfect, but things get decidedly animated with the help of the many cocktail offers on offer in the bar area.

The Food
Incorporating as many of the South and Central American countries as possible, Las Iguanas is able to select dishes, ensuring the menu is well thought out and just darn tasty. The seviche, a traditional Peruvian dish, is a delicious concoction of yellowfin tuna and crayfish marinated in fresh mango, citrus juices and red chilli, served on a bed of salad. Despite the crayfish erring on the tough side, this really is a zesty delight, with the fresh fish being complemented exceptionally well by the heat of the chillies and the cleansing citrus and mango. The quesadilla is quite good too, employing plump Portobello mushrooms with strong, aromatic brie that’s melted between char-grilled tortillas. The tomato, garlic and coriander salsa that accompanies it is well balanced. The highlight of the menu however is the Brazilian national favourite, the xinxim - succulent lime chicken in a soft and mellow crayfish and peanut sauce. For those of you that are fans of satay dishes, this is a superior example - lighter, fruitier and more suited to chicken, it really has to be tried.

The Drink
Las Iguanas boasts an extensive bar that looks impressive and is fronted by some skilful tenders. In keeping with the attempt at authenticity, the chain owns a sugar plantation in Brazil where they grow the cane for their very own cachaca – the country’s national spirit that makes a traditional caipirinha. This doesn’t appear to be just a gimmick as this cocktail does taste crisply superior to those with vodka – the favoured UK replacement. The beers are all Latin so expect Corona, Brahma and Cusquena, except for the obligatory Magners – even supposedly authentic restaurants can’t seem to afford to escape its hideous reach. The wine fares better though, with a good selection benefiting from the many superb new world wines. Keep an eye out for the Catamayor – a sublime, and inexpensive, Sauvignon from Chile.

The Final Word
Offering a sumptuous taste of Latin America right in the heart of London, Las Iguanas is an affordable treat that looks set to keep its many seats filled.

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