A TASTE of Latin America is set to arrive in Derby with the opening of a new restaurant which will create around 40 jobs.
Las Iguanas has confirmed it will be opening its latest outlet in Friar Gate, in the city's Cathedral Quarter.
The chain has outlets across the UK and Derby will be its 37th restaurant when it opens on October 13, with a VIP night taking place three days later.
It will specialise in cuisine that draws upon a mix of Spanish, Portuguese, African and native Latino influences that make up South American culture.
Dishes include Mexican classics like fajitas, burritos, enchiladas and slow-braised chilli con carne. Brazilian specialities include Xinxim – lime chicken in a crayfish and peanut sauce.
Diners will be able to watch their meals being made, courtesy of a double-height atrium, from which they can observe the chefs at work in the open kitchen.
Other unique features include an 18th Century bakery, which offers a more private dining area tucked away in the back of the main dining room complete with original clay oven.
There's also a bar and patio, where South American-inspired cocktails will be served.
Staff who will be working at the restaurant are currently undergoing their induction training ahead of the opening.
They will be led by general manager Maja Makowska, who joins from Las Iguanas's flagship Royal Festival Hall outlet, in London.
Maja said: "As a vibrant and rapidly developing city, we have been looking for a site for Las Iguanas in Derby for a long time.
"We believe we have found the perfect place in Friar Gate, which lies within the CathedralQuarter at the heart of both business and student communities.
"We are delighted with the Grade II-listed building we have found, which provides a fantastic atmosphere. It also has around 5,000sq ft of floor space allowing us to accommodate around 200 covers.
"The Latin American atmosphere offers a truly unique dining experience and our chefs make over 30 fresh sauces and salsas everyday.
"We also cater for all dietary requirements including veggie, vegan, gluten-free and children's menus."
Las Iguanas opened its first restaurant in Bristol in 1991. Since then, the company, which is still independently owned, has grown to become one of the UK's most successful Latin American restaurant operators.
