London Is Open: New Dining Options To Get Excited About

The Covid-19 pandemic has put restaurateurs, chefs, waiters and sommeliers through hell. And yet, they fight on.

Although a succession of lockdowns has claimed more than its fair share of casualties — the two-Michelin-starred restaurant The Ledbury is unlikely to reopen any time soon — investors are continuing to inject much-needed cash into London’s ailing hospitality sector.

It would be disingenuous to claim that the pandemic’s scars will heal anytime soon, or that the loss of so many iconic restaurants — and the jobs they created — isn’t a sad state of affairs.

But the recent surge of new openings is providing a welcome slice of good news. There’s a tangible sense of optimism, not pessimism, that currently hangs in the air. In the context of the past 16 months, that’s nothing less than a miracle. The following new venues are helping to turn the tide. Let’s all celebrate!

Egg Run

In May, London welcomed ‘Egg Run’ into its dining ranks. There’s a clue in the name: every single dish is designed to showcase the versatility of the humble egg, with a menu crafted by executive chef John Skotidas of Mazi fame.

Some of the highlights include Cup on The Run: scrambled eggs, avocado and feta cream and VeganRun: vegan scrambled ‘eggs’, caramelised onions, vegan cheddar cheese, chives, chilli, spring onions and EggRun’s secret sauce on a warm vegan brioche bun.

According to the co-founders, Asher Grant and Laurent Manuel: “sustainable and ethical packaging is at the heart of the business — all packaging is biodegradable, compostable or recyclable with no single-use plastic.”

What: Egg Run
Where: 46 Fish St Hill, London EC3R 6BR
Web: TheEggRun.com

Cin Cin

We mourn the loss of Gull Seafood Shack in Fitzrovia, but it is heartening to see a great name like Cin Cin take its place. Founded by David Toscano and head chef Jamie Halsall, Cin Cin now has an attractive dining venue in London, in addition to its two sister sites in Brighton and Hove.

Casual dining is the name of the game, supported by a precise wine list that nods to both the esoteric and the traditional. Scottish scallops, chicken Milanese and espresso tart should help to dull the recent pain of lockdown. Cin Cin deserves to thrive.

What: Cin Cin
Where: 21 Foley St, London W1W 6DS
Web: CinCin.co.uk

NoMad

Let’s be honest, the great and the good would flock to London’s newest luxury hotel and restaurant, even if the food and service were sub-par. The setting of the main dining room is exquisitely beautiful – an ornate atrium with a soaring glass ceiling designed to flood the space with natural London light.

Moreover, with executive chef Ashley Abodeely in charge of gastronomic duties, you can expect a range of delicious meat, fish, and vegan dishes. An extensive selection of English sparkling wine and a brilliant cocktail list round things off in style.

Oh, and they do Krug by the glass!

What: The NoMad Hotel Bar & Restaurant
Where: 28 Bow St, London WC2E 7AW
Web: TheNoMadHotel.com

The Farrier

London needed more pubs like The Farrier. Warm, informal hospitality meets superlative cooking at Camden’s newest Gastro Pub.

Its headline chef is none other than Ash Finch, who cut his teeth at three Michelin-starred kitchens and certainly knows his way around an oven. Already winning pundits for its extensive wine list, concise menu and professional service, The Farrier should be a long-term face in London’s foodie scene.

What: The Farrier
Where: Camden Stables Market, 87/88 North Yard, Chalk Farm, London NW1 8AH
Web: TheFarrierCamden.com

Mr Ji

Chicken was described as the “Rolls-Royce of meats” by none other than Gordon Ramsay. Mr Ji’s is the latest venue attempting to turn top-quality poultry into gastronomic heaven.

This small and intimate space is run by Samuel Haim, owner of Mr Ji. His USP is applying Taiwanese culinary art to poultry in all manner of guises, everything from Taiwanese fried chicken breast, served with chilli sprinkles and piccalilli mayo to the signature Sichuan burger (pineapple bun, fried chicken thigh, Sichuan chilli and cucumber salad).

Soho’s got a brand-new bag.

What: Mr Ji
Where: 72 Old Compton St, London W1D 4UN
Web: MrJi.co.uk

James Lawrence
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