5 Things You Need to Eat in London This WeekBy Alicia Grimshaw
Looking for foodie inspiration in London? There’s so much deliciousness going down in the capital right now – from bold and beautiful seasonal dishes to comforting DIY pho kits. Here’s 5 things you need to eat in London this week:
1. For a New Menu: HAM West Hampstead
The Lowdown: With a new wine tasting evenings coming up, we suggest tucking into HAM’S signature dish: lamb saddle, grilled beans, pistachios, and anchovies created by newly appointed chef Spyros Koufalakis, ex head chef of Nopi. The bright and chic interiors perfectly complement the light, seasonal and unfussy style of cooking. An airy space, with a natural colour palette extenuated with exposed brick walls, low-lighting, and beechwood flooring, culminating in a gorgeous and welcoming ambience – perfect for either a casual brunch, a lunch catching up with friends, or a romantic dinner.
Where: 238 W End Ln, London NW6 1LG
2. For Seasonal Dishes: Barge East
The Lowdown: Located on a 118-year-old Dutch Barge, the kitchen on the barge itself is run by talented Italian chef Stefano Camplone, whose experience includes L’enclume and Roganic. Stefano makes full use of the Barge East Gardens that surround the Barge ensuring that the home-grown produce shines at the centre of his dishes. Taking what he learned working with Michelin-starred chef, Simon Rogan, Stefano treats these vegetables with the utmost respect as an ode to his time spent at L’Enclume; making the most of his own little garden, but in the heart of Hackney. Barge East is set to create a winter wonderland from November, perfect for cosying in ready for the season.
Where: River Lee, Sweetwater Mooring, White Post Ln, London E9 5EN
3. For a Delivery Kit: PHOMO
The Lowdown: PHOMO rustle up fresh and healthy Vietnamese meal kits, delivered to doorsteps nationwide. Light, flavoursome, and filling, you can choose from their signature pho kits as well as changing seasonal and regional specials. Select from either Beef pho (grass-fed steak); Chicken pho; Vegan pho (choose either sustainably sourced tofu or shiitake mushrooms); and Prawn pho (with either a vegan or chicken broth). All kits consist of broth, noodles, protein, fresh herbs, lime and chilli, and come packaged in recyclable materials. PHOMO have been awarded a GREAT TASTE award, beating off tough competition their PHOs are now recognised as ‘officially’ delicious.
Where: Buy online
4. For a Kitchen Residency: José Pizarro at The Royal Academy
The Lowdown: Possibly one of the most beautiful restaurant spaces imaginable, this grand restaurant can be found upstairs at the Royal Academy in the Senate Room. With its magnificent, high ceilings, gentle music and buzzy atmosphere, this is the perfect spot for daytime dining with friends. Popular dishes include the beautiful Ensaladilla Rusa, here served with delectable tuna belly, and of course, plates of jamón ibérico and José’s stunning hake with salsa verde. Look out for an equally stunning private dining room, opening this month to house up to 20 people.
Where: Burlington House, Piccadilly, London W1J 0BD
5. For a Neighbourhood Restaurant: Pedler Good Fortune
The Lowdown: SE15 has welcomed a new neighbourhood restaurant to the area with the recent launch of Pedler Good Fortune. This urban nook, with an eclectic and individual vibe, offers an Asian menu drawing on inspirations from across the continent; expect well-executed small plates, reimagined tipples, and gin cocktails aplenty. With the menu designed to be shared, highlights from the dinner menu include: Goi Woi (‘1000’ cut sweet potato, Mizo glaze, shiitake, spring onions, crispy seaweed); Crab and Green Mango Salad (chilli, basil, mint, tangerine); and Peanut Butter Tofu Buns (burnt chilli mayo, sesame and pickles).
Where: 169 Queen’s Rd, London SE15 2ND