Looking for a dinner with a difference? head over to Sheldon Square for a riot of flavour, fun and free-flowing drinks at Peruvian fusion restaurant Ayllu. Here’s the lowdown:

Fusion and London are becoming synonymous with each other. They are great for group meals as there is always something for everyone and often bring great combination of flavours.  It’s a formula that works, and we’re here for it, but sometimes you want to step things up a notch, no? Enter: Ayllu.

Pass the colourful barges moored on the Paddington Basin (hello Daisy & May Green and The Cheese Barge) and nestled canal-side underneath Smith’s Bar and Grill you’ll find Ayllu, a sleek little spot specialising in Peruvian-Japanese fusion food and a decent line in cocktails. Visit anytime for their inventive a la carte or tasting menus spanning sashimi, black cod, tuna tacos and Peruvian classics like lomo saltado, or head over on Saturdays for their new immersive samba brunch.

 

 

With DJ’s lining up the South American party tunes it’s easy to get into the spirit of the carnival in this basement bar and restaurant particularly for a Saturday night. The carnival continues with the arrival of samba dancers in full – amazing – costume, who shake their tail feathers around the tables while you sip on your cocktails. Tap along to the high-energy choreographed routines and drumming with a side of pyrotechnics from your comfy booth, or get on your feet and join in with the party: after a cocktail or two the rhythm is going to get you.

 

The dinner itself is based on Nikkei sharing plates: so expect traditional Peruvian ingredients served up using modern Japanese techniques. You’ll start with options including salted edamame and a zippy mixed ceviche of sea bass, corn and octopus before tucking into pillowy bao buns filled with meltingly tender slow cooked teriyaki beef shin, lots of fresh herbs and a silky aji rocoto chili cream; spicy uramaki salmon completes the starting line up. Portions are generous so save some room to pick a main each – we’d recommend the smoky and succulent octopus a la plancha which is vibrant and well seasoned with a satisfying umami hit from katsuobushi (dried bonito) flakes, but the Pollada of baby chicken marinated with four different types of Peruvian chilli and topped with crispy shallots was tempting too. Dessert is there is plenty to choose from however churros and Chocolate fondant you cant go wrong are the perfect way to complete the meal.

Allyu is also great value for money, Its fair to say the meal is delicious but also wont cost you the world which in current circumstances makes its a great go to dinner for a regular great tasting meal without breaking the bank. Due to dry Jan (boo!) we didnt get a cocktail however there is a vast menu which will also be sure to enhance your evening!