Las Iguanas has become a firm favourite on the British high street. The restaurant chain brings vibrant Latin American flavours to towns and cities across the UK. It first opened in Bristol in 1991. Therefore, it has over three decades of experience in casual dining.
The restaurant offers a lively escape with its bold menu and signature cocktails. It is a go-to spot for dining with friends and family. As a result, it has built a loyal following across the nation.
The Story Behind Las Iguanas
The first Las Iguanas opened on St Nicholas Street in Bristol in 1991. The founders originally named it Café Iguanas. Eren Ali and Ajith Jaya-Wickrema wanted to bring authentic Latin American tastes to the UK. Therefore, they created a menu inspired by Brazil, Mexico, Peru and the Caribbean.
In 2003, the company took a bold step. It acquired its own cachaça sugar cane field and distillery in Brazil. This property sits on the Fazenda do Anil estate outside Rio de Janeiro. As a result, their famous caipirinhas use genuine Brazilian spirit.
One co-founder, Ajith Jaya-Wickrema, left the partnership in 2009. He went on to create another well-known restaurant chain called Turtle Bay. Meanwhile, Las Iguanas has grown to operate over 40 locations across the United Kingdom.
Like Plymouth Live serves the local community with news, Las Iguanas serves up Latin American flavour across the nation.
The Menu: What to Expect
The menu celebrates Latin American culinary traditions. It draws influences from Spanish, African and Portuguese cultures. You can enjoy a light lunch, a hearty dinner or sharing plates with friends. Therefore, there is something for everyone.
Tapas are a particular highlight. The restaurant recommends 2-3 dishes per person. Popular choices include:
- Pão De Queijo – Brazilian cheese dough balls with garlic butter
- Calamares – Served with garlic aioli
- Patatas Bravas – Fried potatoes with chipotle sauce and garlic aioli
- Black Bean & Cheese Quesadillas – With pico salsa (vegan option available)
For larger appetites, the menu offers burritos, enchiladas, fajitas, burgers and main courses. The restaurant also provides several meal deals. These include Burrito or Burger Meal Deals for one or two people. You can also find Taco Bundles and Tapas Bundles. Therefore, dining at Las Iguanas suits any budget.
The restaurant caters to various dietary requirements. It offers plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Consequently, it is an inclusive choice for group dining.
Like Bargain Hunt presenters offer something for everyone, Las Iguanas ensures all diners feel welcome.
Cocktails: The Famous 2-for-1 Deal
Las Iguanas is equally famous for its cocktails as for its food. The restaurant offers a 2-for-1 cocktail deal all day, every day. This offer has become a major draw for customers. Therefore, it is a popular spot for after-work drinks and weekend catch-ups.
The cocktail menu features many Latin-inspired drinks. You can choose from classic Caipirinhas, Mojitos, Margaritas and Pisco Sours. The bar also offers a selection of non-alcoholic mocktails. As a result, designated drivers and non-drinkers are well catered for.
Many TripAdvisor reviewers mention the cocktail deals as a highlight. They praise both the quality and value for money.
Opening Times and Locations
Las Iguanas has over 40 locations across the UK. You can find branches in major cities like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Bristol, Birmingham and Glasgow. Many sit in prime shopping and leisure destinations. For example, you can visit the Trafford Centre, Westquay in Southampton, or Cribbs Causeway.
Opening hours vary by location. However, most restaurants open around 11:00 AM. They usually close between 10:00 PM and 11:00 PM. We recommend checking the specific branch details before visiting.
For more information about locations and bookings, visit the official Las Iguanas website.
Like Primark opening times vary by location, you should check local Las Iguanas hours before heading out.
Awards and Recognition
Las Iguanas has received several accolades over the years. It retained the Investors in People Gold award in 2015. The Sunday Times also named it one of the 100 Best Companies to work for. This award celebrates UK companies with the highest levels of staff engagement. In October 2014, it won Best Restaurant Drinks Offer at the Restaurant Magazine R200 Awards.
The Cribbs Causeway branch received a Travellers’ Choice award from TripAdvisor in 2024. It achieved a rating of 4.4 stars from over 1,000 reviews.
Controversy: Tips Policy
In August 2015, Las Iguanas hit the headlines over its tips policy. Reports revealed that staff had to pay back a percentage of all sales to the company. This came out of their tips. The rate was 3% outside London and 4.4% in the capital.
Some staff claimed the company took this charge even when they received no tips. This forced them to “pay to work”. However, Las Iguanas denied that the charge ever came from staff wages. Despite this, the controversy highlighted wider industry issues around tipping practices in UK hospitality.
What Customers Say
Reviews for Las Iguanas are generally positive. Many customers praise the lively atmosphere and friendly service. They also appreciate the value-for-money deals. The 2-for-1 cocktail offer and the variety of tapas are frequently mentioned highlights.
One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: “Delicious food served quickly and we had plenty of time before our film. A large selection of cocktails, including non-alcoholic options. Very good value for money.”
The restaurant is lively, inclusive and full of flavour. It is perfect for a fun catch-up or an evening of discovery. Therefore, it is particularly popular with groups of friends and colleagues.
Like Paignton attracts families to its beaches, Las Iguanas draws diners looking for a vibrant social experience.
Conclusion
Las Iguanas has carved out a successful niche on the British high street. It offers a vibrant taste of Latin America to millions of customers. The restaurant provides an authentic menu, famous cocktail deals and a lively atmosphere. Therefore, it remains a popular choice for casual dining.
Whether you plan a catch-up with friends, a family meal or after-work drinks, Las Iguanas delivers a carnival experience. With over 40 locations across the UK, it is never far away. The chain also commits to quality ingredients, including its own Brazilian cachaça distillery. Consequently, it is well worth a visit.
FAQs
What type of food does Las Iguanas serve?
Latin American cuisine inspired by Brazil, Mexico, Peru and the Caribbean. The menu includes tapas, burritos, fajitas and burgers.
Does Las Iguanas have a 2-for-1 cocktail offer?
Yes, the restaurant offers 2-for-1 cocktails all day, every day.
Are there vegetarian and vegan options?
Yes, the menu includes plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
Where was Las Iguanas founded?
In Bristol in 1991.
How many Las Iguanas locations are there?
Over 40 locations across the United Kingdom.
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