Latin American Community in London

If you are craving a bit of Latin American culture in London, there are a number of good spots to check out.

The Latin American community continues to grow in the British capital, with two distinct centers emerging. In the south of the city, the neighborhoods of Brixton, Camberwell, Stockwell and Elephant and Castle all have strong populations of Latin Americans, with a number of bars, restaurants and small businesses thriving.

Two of the best restaurants are found in Brixton market, where El Rancho de Lalo and El Santafereno serve Colombian food to a mixed clientele. Over in Elephant and Castle, La Bodeguita puts on raucous party nights in addition to food, while Sabor Peruano offers Peruvian classics such as pollo a la brasa (spit-roast chicken).

In North London, the community is centered on Tottenham Hale, with Seven Sisters market providing an important meeting point. Try the Pueblito Paisa restaurant or shop for the latest South American fashions at one of the various small boutiques.

All over town, Latin American cuisine is flavor of the month, with Mexican burrito joints and Peruvian restaurants getting Londoners used to the cooking. However, for a more authentic experience, stick to family-run restaurants such as Colombian Coffee in Seven Sisters Market.