Having walked past Las Iguanas countless times, each time proclaiming I would go inside, I finally accomplished this goal last week. I entered the restaurant and bar with the expectation of high quality food inspired by Latin America and a vibrant atmosphere. While I enjoyed the visit, it was slightly disappointing as the taste of the food was not the most standout in comparison to other restaurants that offer the same cuisine. Regardless, there were various parts of the experience that were worth the visit.
Tucked away in the Chapel Quarter of Nottingham, is this restaurant, a slice of Latin life where the menu of sizzling Latin American dishes are as vast as the cocktail range offered. One unique selling point they have (that other restaurants and bars could adopt!) is ‘cocktail o’clock’. They definitely attract new customers with their policy of 2 for 1 cocktails all day every day – a true happy hour!
The venue itself feels spacious with a range of smaller tables for couples and bigger booths for family and friendship groups. The décor is very aesthetic with bright yellows and turquoise blue symbolising the fun, vitality, and enthusiasm of Latin American culture.
When we first arrived at the restaurant there was only one couple ahead of us in the queue and despite there being quite a few wait staff, the couple in front and my friend I were waiting to be greeted for a long time. This lack of initial politeness was disappointing and set our first experience their off to a lesser start.
We were seated at a table for two which was perfect for us but the only thing that felt odd was that that the next table was situated too close. It was almost as if we were at the same table. The rest of the tables seemed better, especially for hosting big parties, family lunches, or work dinners.
The food options available at Las Iguanas are very wide with the menu including Tapas, food from Mexico, Brazil, Argentina and Peru along with sides and desserts. I ordered the Chicken Enchilada which was £12.50. The pictures in the menu looked scrumptious so I was excited for the meal. However, it was quite lacklustre when it arrived at the table. Although the dish itself was tasty it was too small for a main meal and for the price. It needed to be bigger and come with a side of fries or something similar.
One positive element regarding the menu was the array of options for those with dietary requirements. They offered vegan, dairy free, nut free, vegetarian and gluten free options therefore this is most certainly a place to go in large groups. Cocktail masterclasses are even offered so if you are planning any university socials this could be the best option for you!
Despite the unsatisfactory food, the business does very good charity work that they should be highly proud of. For every Christmas Party they hosted last year they donated £5 to ‘End Youth Homelessness’. Their final total was a fantastic £22,240 which will be winging it’s way to the charity to support homeless young people across the country this winter.
Overall, I have decided that I will visit Las Iguanas again to try something else on the menu. I would encourage others to visit it to try the menu as there is surely something on their for everyone. You can even get double the cocktails while you’re there!