Kurobuta, Marble Arch
Number of visits: 1
Kurobuta first appeared as a pop-up in Chelsea, before going permanent alongside the Marble Arch site. Styled as an izakaya, Scott Hallsworth (of Nobu fame) offers a different side to what one might expect of Japanese food. What you will find here instead, is a myriad of fusion dishes that promise big in-your-face flavours.
The pork belly dish definitely delivers on that promise, big time. The unctuous belly melts as you attempt to bite down on it, while the intense smoky flavour provides a reminder of the embers it was cooked on, combining in an explosion of flavour that leaves you wanting more. We had to order an additional portion to prevent a fight breaking out over what was left on the first plate.
Kurobuta Marble Arch
17-20 Kendal Street
London W2 2AW
Typing Room
Number of visits: 1
Helmed by chef Lee Westcott (who has quite the CV having worked at Tom Aikens, Noma and Per Se among others), the Typing Room is a venture backed by Jason Atherton (who else?).
The menu throws up interesting ingredient combinations, such as this dish of cauliflower and raisins. An intriguing display of textures and flavours, it featured cauliflower prepared with varying techniques, their sweet nuttiness echoed by raisins, while capers provided the contrast. A smart dish which was easy to look at and even easier to eat.
Having taken over the space that was once Viajante, comparisons are inevitable. Though the styles are evidently different, it’s safe to say that the Town Hall Hotel has found a worthy successor. The current kitchen definitely has loads of talent, and I thoroughly back them to go on even further.
Typing Room
Town Hall Hotel, Patriot Square
London E2 9NF
Kanada-ya
Number of visits: 1
A relatively new addition to the London ramen scene, Kanada-ya has been staking its claim on the title of being the best, and based on the evidence, it’s hard to argue against. Ramen at its best is the ultimate comfort food; a warm, thick broth tucking you into bed like a duvet, while springy noodles and flavoursome slices of pork belly send you off to dreamland. Kanada-ya’s rendition of the tonkotsu, created in Yukuhashi, Japan, is one such fine example. From the rich and flavourful broth with “bouncy” noodles (you get to choose the doneness), to the savoury yet sweet egg cooked to the right level of gooeyness (additional order), it was all first rate. Definitely my favourite bowl of ramen in London right now. With no reservations being taken, you’ll have to get there early or be willing to brave the queue.
Kanada-ya Ramen Bar
64 St Giles High Street
London WC2H 8LE
tastythreets 