Las Iguanas Wembley (Bar, Restaurant)

Top 10 things we learned about Las Iguanas restaurant:

1) Las Iguanas restaurants tend to be housed next to largely touristy areas. This branch is by the Wembley Stadium, perfect for families after the football. Other branches are situated at The O2 in Greenwich, the summery Royal Festival Hall, and the fabulous Spitalfields.

2) Ladies, take note: the restaurant is located in a shopping outlet. Rest your tired shopped out feet with a caiprinha.

3) When I walk in, I’m a bit confused. It’s just not Latino looking, which, considering the restaurant serves South American food, perhaps it should do. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not into the stereotypical Latino décor; I just expected more Latino-ness. It just looks a bit like a 1950s diner or something out of Mad Men. Think TransLatino, if that is possible.

4) Despite the décor, things seem bright. Everyone is chilled and everyone is drinking. It’s the most enticing thing to welcome a weary traveller. The motto at Las Iguanas’s is ‘Eat Well, Eat Fresh, Eat Latin’. Brilliant.

5) Being a South American (Brazilian) myself, I have high hopes for this restaurant. I’m welcomed, sit down and order the taco sharing platter for starter. I love Mexican. It has everything right about food. Meat and cheese in the same dish? Sign me up, dammit!

6) The food arrives and I’m excited. I’m raring to go. But I’m a bit disappointed. The taco platter starter is not well seasoned and lacks the panache that Mexican food gives. On a good note, the platter is a good idea for those who like to do things themselves.

7) Ok not to worry, I’ve ordered a chimichanga and that can be better. However, it’s just average and not really something for weight watchers. To be honest, not many of the dishes seem healthy. Beware though; there are a lot, A LOT, of beans. More seasoning needed too.

8) The churros satisfy but there is not enough of that delicious cinnamon sugar. However, the caramel sauce is quite moreish and can be eaten alongside a chocolate ganache dip.

9) The cocktails hit the right spots and give the night a bit of sparkle. I’d recommend the Bellini or Pina Colada.

10) Las Iguanas is a good place if you don’t want to spend too much and want to be filled with caramel, beans and alcohol after a long day....read more