Tacos and mariachis @ Mestizo
Any English person who thinks mariachis are cheesy has been watching too many racist Doritos adverts and not seen it done the proper way. Mexico has produced the greatest crooners in Latin America, their love songs (or boleros as we call them), famous the continent over, and there is nothing like an amazing mariachi to serenade your sweetheart. The idea is to show Mexican culture at its finest, avoiding inauthentic Tex-Mex and Mestizo is about as an authentic Mexican experience in London as you can get. Launched in 2005 in Camden by the lovely Marysol and Roberto, it now has opened a new branch in Chelsea. You’ll find the most popular and classic Mexican dishes, like tacos, enchiladas, and mole. Apart from the food, the restaurant is decorated in the style of Mexico City; the walls referencing parts of Mexico, especially the areas we typically see in the movies. Mestizo is also the home of one of the most varied selections of tequilas and mezcals in the UK. It has more than 260 bottles - a romantic Mexican date without having to cross the ocean.
392 King's Rd, London SW3 5UZ or Hampstead Road NW3 https://london.mestizomx.com
Mojitos and 1950s vibe @ La Rampa
A little piece of Cuba right in Oxford Circus, where the music, art, and cocktails from 1950s Cuba meet our modern age. La Rampa offers travel in time, with dishes inspired by classic Cuban cuisine, tables surrounded by plants, décor inspired by decadent Cuba and a cocktail menu that may be just the treat that sparks the romance.
8 Market Place, Oxford Circus, W1W 8AG https://larampa.co.uk
Sexy partying @ Viva Reggaeton
Looking for a fun, crazy time that will be a night to remember? Fast making a name for itself with its theme-based creativity, inventive dance shows and a great, relaxed and diverse crowd, this is the hottest Latino weekly party in town. With three different rooms and an incredible DJ spinning trending and classic tracks all night. In room 1, you will experience the best of reggaeton, from old classics to new trending songs that have captivated the world. In the two other rooms, you can take a break and enjoy some house music or some of your favourite pop tracks. This is an opportunity for new or long-term couples to have a real Latino night out while enjoying the special performances on stage. What better way to ignite the romantic flames than with a romantic adventure?
A, 6 S Lambeth Pl, London SW8 1SP https://www.fatsoma.com/latinolifeuk
Michelin star ceviche @ Lima
A Peruvian restaurant in the heart of Fitzrovia, combines the sophisticated setting with Peruvian cuisine that creates a unique romantic experience. Lima combines Peruvian recipes with ingredients from the British Isles. Lima is a recognised Michelin winner with more than 10 years of experience that explores and celebrates Peru's most classic dishes. This is an opportunity to find one of the finest Peruvian restaurants in Europe.The inside of Lima celebrates the bright colours of Peruvian culture, but in a fancy, classy way. The bright decor pays homage to the country, with many inspiring depictions of the Peruvian landscape. Lima has an exclusive offer for Valentine’s Day that includes a 6-course tasting menu with a glass of Brazilian sparkling wine. However, for lunch, it offers its current menu, which takes a minimalist approach to the dishes.
31 Rathbone Place, Fitzrovia, London, W1T 1JH https://www.limalondon.com/fitzrovia
Find your groove @ Bar Salsa
This is just for fun. If you and your partner like to dance and have a great night out, Salsa is your choice. Salsa offers all-night Latino music, including bachata, reggaeton, and, of course, salsa! Before the dancing begins, Salsa offers food and cocktails on the table that can accommodate a dreamy date. In Salsa, it doesn’t matter how good or how bad a dancer you are; all that matters is that you enjoy the music, have a great cocktail from the long list of different tropical drinks, and feel at home.
96 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0JG https://www.bar-salsa.com/soho
Pimp your arepa @ Arepa & Co.
This two-venue company is one of the best places where your craving for a homemade arepa can be satisfied. Arepa & Co. is a restaurant that offers a one-of-a-kind Venezuelan experience, with the motto "Make Britain fall in love with arepas." This is suitable for a romantic date, but only with the best arepas in town. With the décor of a Venezuelan classic cantina, Arepa & Co. offers a more informal date that can be enjoyed with some classic Venezuelan music and, apart from the arepas, a mix of other classic dishes such as cassava fries, pastelitos, and tequeños - perfect for sharing! A fantastic opportunity for first dates or first moves.
Haggerston 58a De Beauvoir Crescent N1 5RY or 169 South Lambeth Road, London. SW8 1XW https://www.arepaandco.com
Share a bife @ Zoilo
What more can you ask for than a fancy, romantic dinner with some authentic Argentinian beef? Zoilo is a modern Argentinian grill in Marylebone. It serves authentic food made with British ingredients that the head chefs have added to traditional Argentinian recipes. Zoilo provides an opportunity to experience Argentine flavour and enjoy a memorable meal in a classy setting. The walls are surrounded by art and books, which all contribute to a sense of familiarity. Aside from the grill, there are many other well-known and acclaimed dishes on the menu, including provoleta, mollejas, and dulce de leche for dessert. In addition to the regular menu, Zoilo is making Valentine's Day extra special for the lovebirds by offering a special 4-course menu accompanied by bubble drinks.Looking to impress that special someone with Argentine culture? Zoilo is your choice.
Address: 9 Duke Street, London, W1U 3EG https://www.zoilo.co.uk
Stroll the Ipanema @ Made in Brasil
What could be more romantic than experiencing the best of Brazilian culture? Made in Brasil is ready to offer a unique experience where you can explore its cuisine, try different cocktails inspired by its beach parties, and enjoy famous and classic music. Located in Camden’s heart, this venue allows you to travel into Brazil’s soul; the walls are decorated with colourful drawings of beaches and landscapes. A cosy environment that will bring a couple closer together. For our fellow London Brazilians, the homemade Brazilian food is a fantastic opportunity to experience a trip back home. Traditional dishes such as Picanha, Moqueca and Feijoada are just some of the tasty menu options. After a delicious meal, Copacabana Beach Bar will be waiting for the couples for a few authentic and famous cocktails, such as the variation of Caipirinha, Brazilian party life is what will make a romantic moment that you can’t miss.
12 Inverness Street, Camden Town, London, NW1 7HJ https://madeinbrasil.co.uk
