A quick look back at all the chef collabs that have taken place at Carousel over the past few years would reveal a distinct trend - they really love working with Mexican chefs. And at some point something on the team clearly asked the question, 'Why don't we open our own Mexican restaurant if we're so into it?' The net result is that Carousel founders, Ed and Ollie Templeton are currently working on one.
Cometa is being described as a contemporary Mexican seafood spot, influenced by the likes of Mexico City's Contromar and New York's The Four Horsemen. In the kitchen, working to realise that vision will be Ollie alongside chefs José Lizarralde Serralde (Relae, Nicos, Meroma) and Alejandra Juarez (Estela, Máximo, Makan). And the dishes sound good. There'll be ceviches and aguachiles, with bigger dishes including Crab chilpachole rice with brown butter and chive and Lobster with chintextle (that's a smoked chilli paste) and a smoked butter sauce.
As you might imagine, there'll be a spicy margarita on the drinks list, along with Mezcal Old Fashioneds and their own homemade agua frescas.
The space Cometa is taking over is what used to be Carousel's wine bar, and it's getting a full redesign - think new layout, earthier colour palette and different seating.
"There’s been a Mexican heartbeat to our kitchen for several years now," says Ed, "so opening Cometa felt like the natural next step for us."
More about Cometa
Where is it? 19-23 Charlotte Street, London W1T 1RW
When does it open? February 2026
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @carousel_ldn
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