Day of the Dead: What to do in London this Wednesday

On the Day of the Dead it’s believed the souls of the deceased return to the world of the living for one night to visit their families, at home and in the cemeteries. The annual celebration is considered one of the most important holidays in Mexico and its significance increases globally every year. Here’s where to get immersed in the Mexican tradition in London on 2^nd November.

Chotto Matte, Soho

From 24^th October to 6^th November, Chotto Matte Soho invites guests to come and enjoy their beautiful and captivating Day of the Dead celebrations. The Soho site has recently reopened with a brand-new design, and it will serve food specials including Tuna Tartare (with avocado, pomegranate, chive oil and truffle salsa), Scallop Tiradito (with green apple salsa and aji sesame oil) and The Immortal Flame, a lime mousse dessert with hazelnut praline.

Wahaca

Between 19^th October and 6^th November each Wahaca restaurant will be decked out in traditional papel picado and specially created altars reflecting the traditional ofrendas set up each year in homes across Mexico to honour loved ones that have passed away. As a centrepiece for Wahaca’s Day of the Dead celebrations in London, the exterior of its Southbank restaurant will play host to a gigantic calavera (skull), created and decorated in Mexico and inspired by the sugar skulls displayed across the country to represent the souls of the deceased during the annual festivities.

Madera at Treehouse Hotel

From 7pm on Wednesday 2^nd November, to celebrate the lively Mexican family tradition, Madera at Treehouse London will host a Dinner De Los Muertos feast with a selection of Mijenta tequila based cocktails to choose from. With immersive entertainment from live fire dancers, contortionists and guest DJs, guests will be able to savour the extensive Californian-Mexican menu, with delicious dishes that are perfect for sharing. Choices include Madera at Treehouse London’s signature tacos, famous hot lava stone dishes with the indulgent option to add fresh black truffles, all may be enjoyed alongside the Mijenta tequila signature cocktails to make the night even more special.

100 Wardour Street

The Mexican Dia de Los Muertos is a yearly tradition at 100 Wardour Street, and this year revellers can celebrate in style with the ultimate fiesta on 2^nd November, running in partnership with tequila and mezcal brand, Casamigos Tequila. Diners can book a table to enjoy three courses of Mexican-inspired fare – think tuna tostadas with avocado cream and Baja fish tacos with chipotle mayonnaise – alongside margaritas and live music from the Latin house DJ.

Patròn Tequila Parade

This one’s full-blown parade, where guests can join in on board a London bus – starting at Tanner Street and ending in Soho – and raise a toast with a Patrón Paloma Roja cocktail, whilst discovering more about the celebrations and their origins. Joining the parade will be an assembly of performers directed by Miguel Torres Umba, creative director of Secret Cinema, including Mexican dancers and skull puppeteers. Tickets are bookable in four slots on Eventbrite, for £10 per person.

The food desk