THERE are few and far between when it comes to Mexican restaurants in London. Mediocrity, at best, can be found when tasting tacos in the capital, but Ixchel has opened its doors to prove otherwise.
Situated on Chelsea’s vibrant King’s Road and spearheaded by Mexican Head Chef Ximena Gayosso Gonzalez, the restaurant and Tequila bar hopes to transport guests to the Yucatan peninsula with every bite – and sip.
Having gained an impressive reputation in London, Gonzalez has cut her teeth at Brat in Shoreditch, Mayfair’s Ella Canta and Madera at Treehouse Hotel, so bringing her exotic flare to a menu was a natural next step.
Interior of Ixchel
Interior of Ixchel
Focusing on seasonality and sourcing locally, ingredients are twisted and combined to create a fresh menu that elevates the flavours of Mexico to a premium standard. Sharing plates dominate here, honouring the cultural tradition of eating together and resulting in an all-day tapas-style menu that reinvents the classics whilst emphasising innovation.
Entering Ixchel is a little bit like going into Narnia. The youthful bustle of SW3 disappears through the curtained doors of the restaurant, transporting you from a soggy, cold London to a colourful room boasting with a concoction of aromas and energetic lo-fi beats.
Interior of Ixchel
Named after the Mayan goddess of textiles and the moon, Behind The Door Studio respected both these sentiments with their interior choices picking warm, summery brown hues; from Zellige two-tone tiles on the stairs to commissioning Mexican artist Rafael Uriegas to design a graphic piece for the main wall. On the ceiling, various skylights bring the outside in with the stars peeking through and adding to the mood.
Starters at Ixchel
After taking my seat, I swiftly ordered a drink but didn’t stray to far from what I knew, as I am of the opinion you can’t go wrong with a Tommy’s Margarita. Despite my unadventurous choice, the cocktail list doesn’t shy away from experimentation with Sage, Beetroot and Avocado versions available, and Mezcal takes on an Old Fashioned and the Espresso Martini.
Split into four sections (small plates, salads, tacos and quesadillas, and large plates) the choice is generous – and doesn’t leave out vegetarians and vegans. Offering familiar favourites like Guacamole, Elotes Baby and Pork Belly Tacos, I decided upon the Yellowfin Tuna Sashimi with Toreada Sauce, Tuna Tostada and Sautéed Prawn Quesadillas – the first is a must!
Quesadillas and Tacos at Ixchel
But the star of the show and the most ordered dish was the Short Rib in Smoky Adobo with a pineapple salsa. Coming on the bone and then neatly shredded by a waiter, the meat literally fell off and melted with every bite. Paired with White Hominy Corn Esquites, a famed street dish, the crunch added to the succulent main leaving me more than satisfied (and close to unzipping).
Other options are a Charcoal Crispy Chicken Thigh, Grilled Seabass in Pipián Verde and Achiote Oyster Mushroom. One is a plenty for two, but if you’re feeling greedy, two mains will do you plenty. Without forgetting Salsas, the range begins with a raw mild version and ends with a Scotch bonnet take that comes with a pre-warning – order with caution, definitely not for the faint-hearted.
Large Plates at Ixchel
Whether you are dropping in for a bite of fusion or staying late to taste test tequila, Ixchel proved to be a convincing experience for one of London’s best Mexican restaurants. It was the right vibe without trying too hard and with dishes that make you want to order more, I think Gonzalez might be onto a winner.
by Imogen Clark
Ixchel, 33H King’s Rd, London SW3 4LX