Chef Santiago Lastra’s London-based restaurant, KOL, has achieved a significant accolade, being ranked No. 17 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. This announcement was made during the annual ceremony held at Wynn Las Vegas in Nevada, USA. KOL’s climb by six places from its 2023 position underscores its rising prominence in the global culinary scene, making it the highest-positioned UK restaurant on the list this year.

KOL, located at 9 Seymour Street, Marylebone, London, W1H 7BA, is true to Chef Santiago’s vision of elevating traditional Mexican cuisine through the use of meticulously sourced British ingredients. His culinary philosophy centres on the idea that ‘the simplest ingredients can be made extraordinary if you believe in them,’ a belief vividly reflected in his innovative dishes.

“I’m incredibly honoured to be in this year’s World’s 50 Best Restaurants alongside so many fantastic restaurants, all of whom I deeply respect and admire. This achievement belongs to our brilliant team first and foremost, and also to Mexico – to its traditions, people, and culture that never ceases to inspire us – and to our farmers and foragers for all the opportunities to explore Britain’s landscape and produce. Thank you to our guests and global community for the ongoing support and trust in KOL, and for believing in our story.” – Chef Santiago Lastra

Since its inception, KOL has been celebrated for its unique approach to Mexican gastronomy, intertwining the rich cultural heritage of Mexico with the diverse and abundant produce of the British Isles. The restaurant’s success is a collective effort, deeply rooted in the hard work of its team and the continuous inspiration drawn from Mexico’s vibrant culinary traditions.

The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, established in 2002, is renowned for highlighting the richness and diversity of the global culinary landscape. It is compiled based on the insights of 1,080 culinary experts worldwide and follows a structured and audited voting process. This prestigious list not only celebrates exceptional dining destinations but also serves as a barometer for global gastronomic trends. KOL’s journey to the top of the culinary world continues to inspire and set new standards, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts worldwide.

*Top image banner credit: Wagyu Huarache by Rebecca Dickson