Where it all Began
Inspired by a traditional Mexican fonda, the restaurant showcases beloved regional Mexican classics, with a focus on British ingredients, all through Chef Patron Santiago Lastra’s unique lens. Central to the offering is the comal, a traditional clay griddle and the ‘beating heart’ of the restaurant, producing dishes such as tacos and tostadas. A variety of main courses are served with fresh tortillas milled and made in-house daily, that sit alongside changing seasonal specials. Cocktails echo and complement the food with a playful selection ranging from Palomas to Micheladas, to reimagined classics, and of course, Margaritas…
Crafted Interiors
The restaurant’s design reflects the conviviality of rural Mexico and the vibrant colours of its urban landscapes, drawing inspiration from the Yucatan’s old haciendas, Guanajuato’s textiles, and Mexico City’s emerging design scene. Set across two floors, warmly washed walls are punctuated with bold highlights of pink, blue and green, and adorned with bespoke art pieces, the curation of the space informing the dining experience, enriching the earthy, humble flavours of the food. Located centrally (on Heddon Street just off Regent Street), amidst the art galleries, museums and exhibition halls of Mayfair and St James.
Matt Ford
Originally hailing from New Zealand before settling in London in 2011, Matt brings 15 years of hospitality management and expertise to Fonda, ranging from silver service to casual dining. Most recently, he spent five years at London institution Blacklock, originally as General Manager before progressing to Restaurant Director and then Head of Food and Beverage, supporting the operation of the entire estate of six restaurants. Sharp, precise, and always up for a challenge, Matt is passionate about creating a positive and engaging work culture, empowering his team to deliver a best in class guest experience. Despite his long career, his hunger to always learn is incredibly inspiring, and we are honoured to have him lead the Fonda team. After service, Matt enjoys KOL Mezcaleria as his late-night spot, but if it’s for a few pints, he’ll sneak back to the Dog and Bell, his local in Deptford.
Born in Blackburn, Lancashire, Lewis joins us with over a decade of experience at some of the most well-respected restaurants in the UK and beyond. His repertoire includes Moor Hall, L’Enclume, working with Chef Daniel Humm – first at New York’s Eleven Madison Park and then Davies and Brook at Claridges, before moving to the Nomad hotel in Covent Garden, where he was a part of the opening team. Lewis has spent the last four years leading the team at Richoux as Chef Partner, overseeing operations whilst maintaining the responsibilities of an Executive Chef. Incredibly dedicated, personable, and thoughtful, on Sundays you can catch Lewis playing golf, watching football, and listening to Fred Again on repeat.
Cape Town born and New Zealand bred, LJ first fell in love with the magic of the hospitality industry as a student working at a pub: “There’s a real joy to feeding people, and I’m a big-time feeder.” Arriving in London in 2016 he started at Blues Kitchen as Assistant General Manager, other roles along the way led him to work at Blacklock in the City, before making a home in Shoreditch, working alongside Matt our Fonda GM. A massive team player, with bundles of charm, humour and irony. Apart from food, LJ loves playing netball for his teams; ‘Spuds’ and ‘Quiche’ (yes, those are really the names), and making Spotify playlists for every situation – ask him about his ‘Desert Island’ songs…
From Woodbridge, Suffolk, via Teddington and Hong Kong, Lily started her career at 15 years old, working at local restaurants before planting roots in London at Quo Vadis. She joins us from the likes of Sanchez in Copenhagen, Kona, and Slurp, where she worked in operations. For Lily, getting to know guests, personalising experiences, and anticipating needs is paramount. Outside of work, Lily is often found exercising (from Olympic distance triathlons to boutique fitness classes), and tending to her sourdough starter, Martha.
Born in Guanajuato, Mexico, and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Marisol grew up in a ‘food first’ family. Whether it was eating, cooking, or watching the Food Network, food represented the relationship between friends and family. She joins us from New York’s ATLA, where she was Chef de Cuisine, bringing to Fonda her diverse experience, technical expertise with ingredients, and precision. Off-duty, Marisol can be found binge-watching her favourite anime shows or planning her next trip.
From a little town near Naples, Italy, Luana moved to London ten years ago after completing her degree in languages. Her London chapter also marked the beginning of her hospitality career, starting at Jamie Oliver Restaurants as a receptionist and recently leading Gordon Ramsay Restaurants’ central reservations team before joining Fonda. A total team player whose energy lights up the room, Luana always goes above and beyond for guests, ensuring experiences are memorable and personalised. Outside the restaurant, she can be found listening to Taylor Swift, exploring new London restaurants, and going on city breaks with friends and family.
Originally from the town of Anzano del Parco near Lake Como in Italy, it was Alessandro’s obsession with craft beer that got him into hospitality. Starting his career working at different breweries across Italy, Alessandro then moved to London, where he worked at several pubs and eventually led the bar at Hawksmoor Seven Dials. Alessandro has found a strong sense of community and a love for the industry. Though incredibly disciplined and thorough, Alessandro has a keen sense of humour and does everything with a smile. Beyond the bar (and craft beer), he’s a big gamer and loves hitting the gym set to a soundtrack of Justin Bieber’s best hits.
Work with us
We’re always looking for talented, enthusiastic people to join our team and work with us in a variety of roles across kitchen and front of house.
For more information on our available positions, please click the link below, or to register your interest in working with us, please get in touch directly!
Email: careers@fondalondon.com
