Dining in London this month has taken me on a culinary journey that strikes a balance between vibrant energy and authentic flavors. A standout experience is at Shakara, a new establishment that showcases the dynamism of West African cuisine through its food and atmosphere. The lively vibe, driven by resident DJs playing a mix of Afrobeats and house music, creates an infectious energy that you will carry with you long after leaving the restaurant.
The culinary brain behind this gem, head chef Victor Okunowo, a name you might recognize from MasterChef: The Professionals, has crafted a menu that offers both depth and vibrancy. The standout dish, blue lobster linguine paired with a pepper soup bisque, is a testament to culinary artistry and will surely elevate Shakara’s reputation in the city’s food landscape. Even simpler dishes like the Wakkey hummus and plantain crisps reveal a refined understanding of flavor that leaves patrons wanting more. Guests can easily tell that the intention behind each dish is to create a memorable experience, and honestly, it shows.
Hotel Dining Reimagined at The Pem
Stepping away from the casual, the luxurious offerings of The Pem redefine the art of in-room dining within the confines of the Conrad London St. James. The ‘Pem In Bed’ concept cleverly brings a full restaurant ambiance straight to your suite, with elegant table settings and carefully curated wine pairings transforming your staycation into a gourmet escape.
Imagine enjoying poached Cornish cod luxuriously drizzled in hazelnut pesto and white wine velouté—an evocative dish that encourages indulgence without guilt. The roast sirloin of Jersey beef finds its glory complemented by a red onion tarte tatin and a robust bone marrow jus that dances on the palate. Each encounter with the food pushes boundaries not merely to impress, but to create lasting memories, making this dining experience spectacularly thoughtful.
Bánh Mì Mastery at Keu
Amidst the buzzing scene of casual eateries, Keu emerges with its bánh mì that can only be described as revelatory. Since opening its doors in local neighborhoods, it has quickly built a loyal following, and for good reason. With a roast pork belly bánh mì that encapsulates the perfect interplay of crispy edges, succulent fat, and an exquisite blend of pâté and mayo, every bite is an invitation to savor. The baguette’s texture is formidable—a delightful snap that defies the norms of the average sandwich, allowing for a harmonious blend of components and preventing any messy encounters.
Nestled within a casual ambiance, Keu elevates the art of simple fare to unprecedented heights. This isn’t just a meal on the go; it’s a meticulous creation that deserves accolades. Having sampled various bánh mì throughout the city, I can confidently assert this could be among the best, a must-try for all London food enthusiasts.
Warmth and Generosity at Honey & Co
Stepping into any of the Honey & Co locations feels akin to entering the home of a skilled Israeli friend who is eager to share their culinary heritage. The Bloomsbury branch is a remarkable testament to warmth and hospitality, setting the stage for an intimate dining experience. Here, eclectic Middle Eastern-inspired dishes come alive with bursts of flavor, reflecting the passion that owners Sarit Packer and Itamar Srulovich infuse into their cooking.
From meticulously crafted mezze to standouts such as the famous feta and honey cheesecake—which is, frankly, nothing short of addictive—every element reflects a deep-rooted dedication to authenticity. The unobtrusive yet attentive service ensures that every guest feels as if they are being treated not merely to a meal, but an enriching experience steeped in love and care. At Honey & Co, each dish becomes an opportunity to foster connections through shared meals.
The Poultry Perfection of Bob Bob Ricard’s Chicken
For those who believe that chicken is just a mundane choice, the irony awaits at the chicken-focused sibling of Bob Bob Ricard. Slightly more compact yet undeniably sophisticated, this eatery is dedicated to elevating poultry to serious gastronomic heights. The menu, simplicity defined, showcases an array of chicken preparations that will enchant any poultry lover.
Alongside the various chicken options, sides like truffle mac & cheese and caviar-topped French fries help create a carousel of indulgence that feels unapologetically luxurious. The atmosphere—dimly lit with sumptuous velvet accents—invites guests to linger and revel in not just the food, but the entire experience. It’s an inspired setting that encourages playful cocktails and lively discussions among friends, making it a perfect choice for a delightful evening that transcends simple dining.
If the past month is any indication, London’s culinary landscape is alive with innovation, warmth, and unforgettable experiences that extend far beyond the plate. Each visit is not just about the food; it’s about connection, atmosphere, and the joyous act of gathering around a table—something we can all savor.