Las Iguanas’ Latin passion arrives in Exeter

Here’s an opening for Exeter to get excited about – Las Iguanas have brought their passion for all things Latin to the already buzzing Queen Street. Delivering on their simple ethos to deliver South America to every table, every day, the aim, in the words of general manager Dominika Sawicka, is to make Las Iguanas ‘the place to be’.

So what can Exeter’s discerning diners expect? In essence, a fresh, fabulous foodie adventure through the deliciously diverse cultures and cuisines of South America. Of course at Las Iguanas, everything begins and ends with their passion for food. Only the freshest, highest quality ingredients from the most carefully sourced suppliers are used to create delicious Latin American specialties. All dishes are made freshly to order, and all of the unique 30+ sauces and salsas are home-made in the kitchens every day.

The distinctively eclectic menu – deliciously different in every venue – reflects the diverse mix of Spanish, Portuguese, African and native Latino influences that make up South American culture. From Mexican classics like their famous fajitas, burritos and old-school chilli con carne made as it should be, Brazilian specialties like the coconut-rich curry Bahia Moqueca, sizzling steaks and ‘blazing birds’ fresh from the barbecue and a tantalising selection of exotic salads, adventurous Cuban sandwiches and burgers, every taste and occasion is catered for.

There’s a brilliant choice of vegetarian and gluten-free options, a fabulous children’s menu and of course an irresistible selection of authentic tapas and sharing plates. The drinks menu is almost as extensive with a wide choice of wine, beer and coolers, in addition to Las Iguanas’ legendary cocktails – with special mention going to their signature Caipirinha, made with their very own cachaça, sourced and distilled near Rio de Janeiro. 

Although every Las Iguanas is unique from a design point of view, the inspiration is always that as soon as you open the doors, you are instantly immersed in the colour, chaos and charm of Latin America. Designed by MBDS, with their impressive track record in creating exceptional spaces, the USP of this latest launch, in its prime location just yards from Exeter’s museum and main shopping areas, is an open kitchen pass so diners can see each dish being prepared from scratch by the passionate, talented chefs.

What has been created is a vibrant but chilled out environment, which encourages a relaxed, lounge-style experience as opposed to uber-formal dining. And as you’d expect from a company recently awarded the coveted accolade of being in The Sunday Times Top 100 Best Companies to Work For, the hospitality and service is exemplary – after all, you can’t have happy customers without happy staff.

In the 22 years since Las Iguanas first introduced us to their uniquely Latin energy and charm in Bristol, they have been spreading the word up and down the country. And now it’s Exeter’s turn to feel the love. As operations manager George Bovill says,

“The team and I are happy to bring fresh Latin food and drink and an exciting vibrant restaurant to this great city, it will also be an excellent opportunity for local people to work for a great brand and develop with us.”  Salud Exeter!