The Rise of Mexican Cuisine in Britain

From Old El Paso to Michelin stars

The story of Mexican food in the UK is one of radical transformation. In the 80s and 90s, "Mexican food" meant Old El Paso kits and generic Tex-Mex chains. Today, London has a Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant (Kol), artisan tortillerias that nixtamalise their own corn, and a vibrant community of Mexican cooks and entrepreneurs changing perceptions of their gastronomy.

The pioneers

Thomasina Miers opened Wahaca in 2007, inspired by her travels in Mexico. Although a casual chain, it had an enormous impact educating the British public about Mexican flavours beyond Tex-Mex.

The new wave

From 2015, El Pastor brought authentic trompo-cooked tacos al pastor. Santo Remedio offered modern Mexican cuisine. In 2020, Santiago Lastra opened Kol, earning a Michelin star in its first year.

Beyond London

Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol, Leeds and Glasgow all have Mexican restaurants seeking authenticity. Artisan tortillerias are appearing across the UK. Supermarkets have significantly expanded their Mexican product sections. Brands like Gran Luchito offer accessible authentic products.

The trend is clear: Mexican cuisine in the UK is moving towards authenticity. With a growing Mexican community, more Mexican chefs opening restaurants, and an increasingly educated public, the future of Mexican cuisine in Britain is bright.