Ixchel: A Mexican Restaurant with a Surprising Twist

At first glance, Ixchel in Chelsea appears to be a trendy Mexican-themed nightclub rather than a restaurant. The dim lights, energetic Euro house music, and stylish patrons exuding confidence all contribute to this initial impression. However, once seated and introduced to the menu, it becomes clear that Ixchel is far from a typical Mexican eatery.

Head chef Ximena Gayosso Gonzalez boasts an impressive pedigree, having trained under renowned chef Martha Ortiz at Dulce Patria in Mexico City. She also worked at Ella Canta, a now-closed Mayfair restaurant. Drawing inspiration from the Yucatán Peninsula, the cuisine at Ixchel blends the indigenous Mayan heritage with flavors from nearby Caribbean islands.

While some traditional dishes like cochinita pibil are noticeably absent from the menu, seafood takes center stage. The scallops aguachile, tuna tostada, and prawn quesadilla have unfortunately already run out, but the crab tostada is a standout dish. The white crab meat is fresh, and the salsa macha provides just the right amount of nutty heat.

A hallmark of any respectable Mexican establishment is its salsas, and Ixchel doesn’t disappoint. Four varieties are available, ranging from the sharp and vibrant salsa verde to the fiercely fiery scotch bonnet salsa that requires extreme caution.

The pork belly taco impresses with its combination of handmade tortilla and well-prepared pork. The ensenada taco, hailing from the Pacific coast rather than the Caribbean, features a finger of white fish coated in a golden, crispy batter and topped with a punchy habanero crema.

As the pulsating music permeates the air, making conversation difficult, guests indulge in esquites, a dish consisting of large kernels of sweet white corn, and braised short rib smothered in a smoky and spicy adobo sauce. Sipping on a peppery Vivir Blanco tequila completes the culinary journey.

Meanwhile, the youthful and glamorous clientele continue to strike poses, flick their hair, and showcase their flawless smiles. With an average cost of around £50 per person, a visit to Ixchel promises an elevated Mexican dining experience.

Located on the iconic King’s Road in Chelsea, Ixchel is a breath of fresh air in London’s dining scene, offering a unique twist on Mexican cuisine.