London's iconic Tate Modern gallery is set to launch an exclusive culinary experience this summer, featuring a Michelin-starred menu directly inspired by the legendary Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The innovative collaboration pairs the renowned Bankside institution with acclaimed chef Santiago Lastra, founder of the Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant Kol in Marylebone.
A Culinary Tribute to Frida Kahlo's Legacy
The special menu has been created in direct response to the life, work, and enduring cultural legacy of Frida Kahlo, whose major exhibition 'Frida: The Making of an Icon' opens at Tate Modern this summer. Chef Lastra, who shares Kahlo's birthplace of Mexico City, described the collaboration as particularly meaningful, stating it represents his personal homage to an artist who embodies the spirit and complexity of Mexican culture.
Exhibition and Dining Details
The Frida Kahlo exhibition promises to be one of London's most significant art events of 2026, featuring approximately 130 works by the iconic artist alongside pieces by her contemporaries and those she influenced. The comprehensive show will include documents, photographs, and memorabilia from Kahlo's personal archives, providing unprecedented insight into her creative process and personal life.
The culinary experience will be available at the Tate Modern Restaurant on the gallery's sixth floor, offering panoramic views of the River Thames rather than direct exhibition access during dining. The Santiago Lastra x Tate Modern menu will feature a two-course set menu priced at £41, with an option to bundle exhibition entry for £66. The special offering will be available from June 25 through August 31, aligning with the exhibition's summer run.
Chef's Creative Approach
Santiago Lastra has built his reputation on contemporary reinterpretations of classic Mexican cuisine while maintaining strong connections to British produce. Although specific menu details remain under wraps until their April reveal, Lastra has indicated his creations will translate the emotions, colours, and narratives found in Kahlo's artwork onto the plate.
Since founding Kol in 2020, Lastra's restaurant has earned and maintained a Michelin star since 2022, establishing him as one of London's most exciting culinary talents. His collaboration with Tate Modern represents a significant cultural crossover between visual arts and gastronomy in the capital.
This innovative partnership continues Tate Modern's tradition of enhancing major exhibitions with complementary experiences, offering visitors multiple ways to engage with artistic themes beyond traditional gallery viewing. The Frida Kahlo-inspired menu promises to add a distinctive sensory dimension to what is already anticipated to be one of London's standout cultural events of the summer season.
