Kol’s Santiago Lastra Reveals Islington’s Best Eats and Drinks

Key Points

• Chef Santiago Lastra was born in Mexico City, Mexico.
• He trained at the renowned Mugaritz restaurant and the Nordic Food Lab in Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Lastra worked with celebrated chef René Redzepi on the Noma pop-up in Tulum, Mexico.
• Now based in London, he owns two restaurants: the Michelin-starred KOL, ranked No 49 on the World’s 50 Best list, and its more casual counterpart Fonda.
• Islington is the London neighbourhood Lastra calls home.
• He has shared his favourite local spots to eat and drink in Islington with Hot Dinners.

Islington (North London News) February 7, 2026 – Renowned Mexican chef Santiago Lastra, owner of the Michelin-starred restaurant KOL, has revealed his most cherished places to eat and drink in Islington, the North London borough he considers his adopted home.​

As a Mexico City native who honed his skills at global culinary powerhouses, Lastra’s insights offer locals and visitors alike a personal guide to Islington’s vibrant food and drink scene. His endorsements highlight a mix of casual haunts and refined gems that reflect his discerning palate.

Who is Santiago Lastra?

Santiago Lastra’s culinary journey began in the bustling kitchens of Mexico City, where he was born and first developed his passion for food. According to details shared in his Hot Dinners interview, Lastra pursued advanced training at Mugaritz, the innovative Basque restaurant led by Andoni Luis Aduriz, known for its experimental approach to gastronomy.

He later joined the Nordic Food Lab in Copenhagen, an offshoot of the celebrated Noma, where he explored fermentation and wild ingredients. Lastra then collaborated directly with René Redzepi, Noma’s chef-owner, on a pop-up venture in Tulum, Mexico, blending Scandinavian techniques with Mexican heritage.

These experiences shaped Lastra into a chef celebrated for fusing traditional Mexican flavours with modern innovation. Now firmly rooted in London, he channels this expertise into KOL, his flagship restaurant which earned a Michelin star and secured the 49th position on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, and Fonda, a more relaxed venue offering approachable Mexican fare.

Why Does Lastra Call Islington Home?

Islington holds a special place in Santiago Lastra’s heart as the London neighbourhood where he has settled. In his feature with Hot Dinners, Lastra describes it as “my manor,” underscoring his deep affection for its community and culinary landscape.

The area’s blend of historic charm, diverse residents, and independent eateries resonates with Lastra’s own background in vibrant, food-centric cities like Mexico City. Islington’s Upper Street, with its array of shops, pubs, and markets, provides an ideal backdrop for a chef seeking inspiration close to home.

Lastra’s choice of Islington reflects broader trends among London’s culinary elite, who increasingly favour North London boroughs for their authenticity over flashier central districts. His local recommendations emphasise spots that prioritise quality ingredients and genuine hospitality, mirroring the ethos of his own establishments.

What Are Lastra’s Top Breakfast Spots?

When it comes to starting the day, Santiago Lastra turns to Ottolenghi on Upper Street for breakfast. As reported by the Hot Dinners team, Lastra praises this iconic deli for its exceptional pastries, particularly the cheese straws, which he calls “the best in London.”

He appreciates the all-day appeal of Ottolenghi, where vibrant salads and fresh bakes draw a steady crowd. Lastra notes the spot’s role in Islington’s food scene, offering a reliable fix for busy mornings.

For something heartier, Lastra recommends The Barn, a nearby café celebrated for its seasonal, farm-to-table approach. According to his Hot Dinners interview, the smoky spelt kedgeree with pickled rhubarb stands out as a favourite, showcasing inventive British brunching.

Where Does Lastra Head for Lunch?

Lunch for Lastra often means a visit to Trullo on St Paul’s Road, an Italian osteria he holds in high regard. Hot Dinners quotes Lastra saying, “Trullo is my local and I love it,” highlighting the pappardelle with beef shin ragù as a must-order dish.

The restaurant’s focus on house-made pasta and wood-fired cooking aligns with Lastra’s respect for craftsmanship. He values Trullo’s unpretentious vibe, making it a go-to for solo lunches or casual meet-ups.

Another lunchtime gem is Fig & Olive, where Lastra enjoys the likes of whipped lardo on toast. As per the Hot Dinners feature, he describes it as a “hidden gem” for its fresh, simple plates that punch above their weight.

Which Wine Bars Does Lastra Frequent?

Lastra’s evenings frequently lead him to wine-focused havens like Bar Ostrowska. In his Hot Dinners interview, he raves about the potato and cheese pierogi paired with natural wines, calling it “proper foodie stuff.”

The intimate setting and curated selection make it ideal for unwinding. Lastra appreciates the Eastern European influences, a nod to his global tastes.

For something more laid-back, he points to The Drapers Arms, a gastropub with an excellent wine list. Hot Dinners reports Lastra’s fondness for its oysters and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for lingering over a glass.

What Makes These Pubs Special to Lastra?

The Pig & Butcher emerges as a top pub pick for Santiago Lastra. According to Hot Dinners, he loves the Sunday roasts here, praising the perfectly crisp potatoes and Yorkshires.

This Islington staple embodies British pub culture with a gourmet twist, offering nose-to-tail dining that appeals to Lastra’s ingredient-driven philosophy. He frequents it for its community feel and consistent quality.

The Albion, another favourite, earns nods for its garden and classic British fare. Lastra, as quoted in Hot Dinners, enjoys the ham, egg, and chips, appreciating its role as a neighbourhood anchor.

Where Can You Find Lastra’s Dinner Recommendations?

For dinner, Lastra steers towards The Wolseley City on Old Street, though technically on the cusp of Islington. Hot Dinners captures his enthusiasm for the duck terrine and Grand Cru Chardonnay, describing it as a sophisticated yet approachable choice.

He also champions Two Tribes on Upper Street for small plates like whipped cod’s roe. In the interview, Lastra states, “I could eat the whipped cod’s roe every day,” underscoring its addictive appeal.

These spots showcase Islington’s evolution into a dining destination, blending high-end and hearty options that cater to a chef’s exacting standards.

How Do These Spots Reflect Islington’s Food Scene?

Santiago Lastra’s selections paint Islington as a borough brimming with independent talent and diverse influences. From Ottolenghi’s Middle Eastern flair to Trullo’s Italian mastery, the area thrives on eclectic excellence.

His picks avoid chains, favouring family-run ventures that prioritise seasonality and locality. This mirrors Lastra’s own restaurants, KOL and Fonda, where Mexican roots meet London produce.

As Hot Dinners notes, Lastra’s guide elevates Islington beyond its reputation for pubs, positioning it as a serious culinary hub in North London. His endorsements could draw more food enthusiasts to these under-the-radar gems.

What Drinks Does Lastra Recommend?

Beyond wine bars, Lastra enjoys The Yard Cocktail Club for creative serves. Hot Dinners quotes him highlighting the Oaxaca Old Fashioned, a mezcal twist that nods to his Mexican heritage.

He also frequents The Alchemist for innovative cocktails in a lively setting. These choices reveal Lastra’s appreciation for mixology that complements his savoury preferences.

Why Share These Favourites Now?

In agreeing to share with Hot Dinners, Lastra aims to support local businesses that enrich his daily life. The feature, timed amid London’s post-pandemic recovery, spotlights Islington’s resilience.

His insights come at a moment when diners seek authentic recommendations over hype. By naming names and dishes, Lastra provides actionable intel for anyone exploring the area.

Broader Impact on North London Dining

Lastra’s My Manor feature underscores Islington’s pull for international chefs, contributing to North London’s dining renaissance. Spots like KOL and Fonda have already put the borough on the map, with Lastra’s tips likely to boost traffic to his recommended haunts.

As a Michelin-starred figure at No 49 on the World’s 50 Best, his voice carries weight. This could inspire similar guides from other chefs, further cementing Islington’s status.

Residents in nearby Camden, Tottenham, and Brent may look to Islington as a model for community-driven food scenes. Lastra’s story exemplifies how personal passion fuels urban vibrancy.