Zuaya

Savvy diners may have reached peak Peruvian, but this classy newcomer shows a broader view of Latin American cooking courtesy of Spanish chef, Francisco Lafee. His back story includes world-famous Basque restaurants such as El Celler de Can Roca and Michelin-starred Barrafina, but this Kensington outfit features creative tapas and sharing plates. Expect clever riffs on ceviches and tacos, along with prime fish and meat dishes and a whole host of exciting vegetarian and vegan options such as raspberry gazpacho with feta, and patatas bravas.

The cooking is ambitious, but also skilful and modern: try tuna tartare with crisp seaweed, avocado and a Chinese-influenced dressing involving hoisin, lime, garlic and ginger oil. Sea bream ceviche with Peruvian corn is served warm to contrast with sweet-potato ice cream, while Zuaya’s version of crispy duck salad involves slices of Ibérico duck in a super-light tempura with watermelon, raspberry and a sauce of cloves, fennel, cinnamon and Szechuan pepper.

Elsewhere, a mighty piece of sizzling grilled octopus arrives with smooth potato cream and vibrant chimichurri sauce, followed by lamb tacos flavoured with ras-el-hanout and smoked pineapple. For pudding, we suggest ‘quindim’, a medley of coconut textures presented in the shell. Weekend brunch is also available, with classics such as organic granola and eggs many ways sitting alongside more adventurous dishes including carrot pancakes, and pumpkin toast.

Service is as slick as the interiors, on which no expense has been spared. Jungle foliage and a handsome cocktail bar of brass and marble give the ground floor an instant wow factor that’s ideal for special-occasion dining, while the larger downstairs is full of romantic details and cosy corners that are perfect for post-work cocktails and tapas with friends, date nights or celebrations. Be sure to check out the peaceful outdoor terrace on warm days too.

Exotic Zuaya is the perfect restaurant for those in search of food with a little wow factor. Tucked away just off High Street Kensington, this vibrant Latin American bar and restaurant couldn't ask for a better location; whether you're just stopping in for a cocktail or you're planning a fun dinner with friends, Zuaya has something for everyone.

The restaurant's immersive, verdant interiors help to whisk you away from London and into a different world. Plants hang from the ceilings and grow on the walls, and though Zuaya has a wild, untamed side to it, it's also smart and elegant thanks to a striking marble bar, parquet flooring and chic lounge seating. There's also an al fresco terrace that proves very popular in the summer months.

Zuaya's menu takes in a wide spectrum of influences, from Mexico all the way down to Peru, Brazil and the furthest reaches of South America. Guests ordering from the all-day menu can take their pick from a selection of tapas-style sharing plates, including padron peppers, a daily-changing croqueta, calamari, spinach and ricotta empanadas, Iberian pork with squash, seabass ceviche and lots more. Although the theme is largely South and Central American, there are some popular favourites sneaking in from other parts of the world too, such as the Wagyu beef short rib bao bun. Desserts are more straight forward, but no less delicious, including cheesecake, passion fruit creme brulee, and dulce de leche and coconut flan.

There are other menus available too - Zuaya serves an Argentinian steak lunch from Monday to Friday, and also offers a set menu with a more traditional choice of starter, main and dessert. 

On top of all that, Zuaya has some serious cocktail game too. Alongside a deep wine list, the restaurant offers a range of classic and signature cocktails, including the London to Lime (pisco, falernum, lime, agave syrup and egg white) and the Balance of the Jungle (vodka, elderflower liquor, Amaro di angostura, honey and lime).