There are times in life that you just have to go with the flow. There is nothing wrong about it. Chain restaurants can be good options for a quick bite or family meals. And I think Las Iguanas fits these criteria quite well.
The first time I have been to Las Iguanas in Birmingham, it was several years ago when I was craving for some caipirinhas. Back that time I didn`t know many places serving Brazilian food (and drinks) in the city. And the caipirinha was a hell of cheap there!
Seven years later, here we are with three Las Iguanas branches in Brum. There are plenty of places serving South American food (and caipirinhas) here, but I always find a different reason to visit this chain restaurant now and then.
This chain is around since 1991 with 53 restaurants spread all across the UK serving Latin American dishes. The group also owns another popular restaurant chain, Turtle Bay, that serves authentic Caribbean food.
A couple of weeks ago I had a lunch at Las Iguanas at Resorts World. I like this one because besides being popular, the restaurant is spacious, and the service is quick as well.
It was my first time visiting the place as a non-meat eater. But I knew it wouldn’t be difficult to pick a good meal there. They have vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free meals. Sorted!
The range of Brazilian typical dishes is really impressive here. So, I was curious to try the Dadinhos De Tapioca – crispy cheesy cubes served with sticky chilli jam – straight away.
I confess I had better ones before the chilli jam was delicious, but the tapioca and cheese cubes were a bit burnt and I also expected to be a bit bigger portion.
Not a good start, but we had gorgeous Cassavas Fritas – with roasted tomato salsa and Sweet Potato Fries with creamy Aioli that were both a good choice of side.
As a main, I stepped to Argentina for a taste of its veggie burger. Believe it or not, there are vegetarian meals in the Pampas too. So, I went for the Black bean & beetroot burger with melted Emmental in a toasted brioche bun, smothered in a creamy tomato & gherkin sauce, creamy slaw & fries.
My husband opted for the Buenos Aires Burger with prime short rib & chuck beef patty, char-grilled & topped with aioli, crisp baby gem lettuce, smoky pork chorizo, caramelised onion, Emmental cheese & fresh herb chimichurri in a toasted brioche bun with slaw & fries. As he demolished it, so I guess it was a good choice on the menu.
My first beetroot burger experience was a nice surprise. It was moist and juicy. I think I was a bit greedy for asking for more sweet potato fries but never mind. I think Las Iguanas caters really well for vegetarians. The food is not bland, and all South American flavours are there.
The 2-for-1 cocktails menu is another good feature at Las Iguanas because it’s a great excuse to check out some Latin American popular drinks such as caipirinhas, piscos and Cuba libres. You know what I mean. If you order the same drink, the price will be £8.95 for both.
A true bargain for such a gorgeous Pear Drop Caipirinha. I never had a pear caipirinha before and now I am hooked. That’s delicious. I heard Las Iguanas owner has their own Cachaça coming straight from the countryside of Rio de Janeiro, in Brazil. You can’t be more original than that!
Overall, I love eating at Las Iguanas. I think they delivered the magic taste of Brazilian and Argentinian food. I am glad this is an ethical company that is abolishing plastic straws and works with fresh ingredients. It’s value for money and a gastronomic trip to Latin American flavours for sure.
