Ixchel is a Mexican restaurant and tequila bar located on the King’s Road in Chelsea, focused on delivering authentic Mexican food to London. Ixchel draws inspiration for its flavours from Tulum in the Yucatan peninsula, serving an all-day menu, from 9am to midnight, including the likes of quesadillas, ceviches and tacos among other Mexican classics.
Adding to Chelsea’s array of international cuisine is Ixchel’s chef Ximena Gayosso Gonzalez who aims to take tastebuds on a voyage 'to the exotic Yucatan peninsulas'. Gonzalez previously worked at Dulce Patria in Mexico City, before moving to London to spend time at Michelin-starred Brat in Shoreditch, and Ella Canta - superstar Mexican chef Martha Ortiz's now closed London restaurant.
The restaurant has taken its name from the Mayan goddess of the moon and the textiles and the interior design match her artistic legacy; there is a sizable contemporary macrame paying homage to her weaving and a mural by the Mexican artist Rafael Uriegas, known for fusing ancient mythology and modern art. Ixchel's bar holds one of the largest collections of agave-based liquor in Europe. Not only are copious amounts of tequila available, but Ixchel also has a variety of artisan mezcal from traditional Mexican distilleries and an extensive cocktail list.
With an abundance of large tables, this is a fun spot for a group meal and animated conversation. The menu carries a selection of sharing dishes, such as cheese and herb-stuffed pasilla chilis with slow-cooked salsa roja and toasted peanuts; as well as large plates including black tiger prawns with squid skewers, tomato and cactus salad and pork ribs encased in banana leaf cooked in dark beer over charcoal.