Ella Canta
It is really hard to find authentic Mexican in London. Even some Mexican friends of mine, couple of years ago, couldn’t find something close to real Mexican flavors.
But things changed when recently Ella Canta restaurant opened in the Intercontinental Hotel in London. It is the restaurant of the famous Mexican chef Martha Ortiz, bringing modern and authentic (finally) Mexican cuisine to London. It is her second restaurant, the first being in Mexico City. She won multiple awards and the first one has been listed in the Top 50 Latin America’s best restaurants. Did you know Mexico is a foodie destination and Mexico City’s been rising in the food scene with more and more awarded restaurants?
When you enter you have a feeling that the area used to be a classic American chain brand hotel restaurant, but the team of Ella Canta did their maximum best to transform the place to have a Mexican inspired decor; colors, lightning, textures and vibe. The best part is when you enter you are welcomed by girls in Freda Kahlo inspired costumes and flower bands in their heads; smiling faces under a colorful Mexican painting. The costumes of the staff are incredible (I wish I had their dress), designed specifically for the restaurant. There is also inside, on a slightly higher level, the bar area, where you can sit for drinks, serving amazing cocktails. But always go for the margarita; always! And if you don’t want the classic they have a selection of flavors.
From the menu expect Mexican fusion, served in a creative, colorful fashion. This is gourmet Mexican of course. The food is delicious, the flavors burst out of every dish and each one of them is a small piece of art-it really is. The chef has successfully transferred us to her native country and gave us a feeling of the textures and tastes of her upbringing. She even brings the ingredients from Mexico and makes her own tortillas and tacos.
We took the tasting menu. Started with guacamole with tortilla chips and pickled salmon tostadas with avocado and chipotle.
Continued with Mexican classic tamal with cheese and cream.
Then came the juicy black cod with potato and chile.
Followed by the duck with black mole, plaintain and red rice.
There was tomatillo sorbet before the dessert which was what else? Mexican churros with caramel and chocolate sauces.
The feast finished with Mexican spiced coffee (delicious-I wish I had some every day) and with some sweet bites.
To sum up: Go and try the tasting menu if you can, if not take some plates to share. Try the margaritas and finish with spice coffee. Escape London and feel you are in Mexico.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Ella Canta. It is one of the best 2017 openings and definitely must try experience.