Is there any city that masters the art of fusion cuisine quite like London? Nearly every eatery, save for some steadfast French, Italian, or Japanese joints, draws from a blend of culinary traditions, transforming the city into a vast melting pot of tastes and cultures. It's about time we crafted a definitive guide to London’s top fusion food spots – a go-to resource for when you’re craving a mix of flavors. Here's my list of the top 10 to visit.
Jikoni
Ravinder Bhogal’s 'no borders kitchen' is a charming spot on Marylebone’s Blandford Street, decked out in whimsical decor that evokes the warmth of a family home, complete with Russian dolls and framed photos. The menu features an eclectic mix of South Asian, Middle Eastern, East African, and British influences, focusing on sharing dishes that are both comforting, flavorful and inventive – like the prawn toast scotch egg. Be sure not to overlook the bacon and mushroom bread and butter pudding on the revamped brunch menu – a truly indulgent reason to rise and shine. I need this recipe.
Los Mochis City
The city needed more of Los Mochis, and the opening of its second location at 100 Liverpool Street is a cause for celebration. This expansive new venue boasts floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of St Paul’s Cathedral, a vast central bar, and a spacious outdoor terrace. The menu continues to delight with its Mexican-Japanese fusion – opt for the tasting menu to fully indulge, and make sure to try the trailer park chicken tacos. An experience on all levels.
Angelina
Angelina offers a unique culinary twist, merging Italian and Japanese fare in its 13-course tasting menu in a sleek, minimalist setting just off Kingsland Road. This intriguing combination prioritizes freshness and authenticity, playfully merging the two with a focus on British ingredients. The menu rotates weekly but expect perennial favorites like stuffed pastas and leave room for the inventive desserts.
Bar des Prés
Cyril Lignac’s venue on Albermarle Street is an enigma, blending French, pan-Asian, and a touch of Italian influences. The dishes are executed with precision; try the miso aubergine, a reimagined classic aubergine melanzane parmigiana, or the crunchy crab and avocado galette – perfect for those who like to photograph their food and a stone’s throw from my perfumery, Ormonde Jayne.
Sumosan Twiga
Sumosan Twiga is a fusion in more ways than one. It combines the renowned Japanese cuisine of Sumosan with an Italian menu courtesy of the hospitality brand Twiga. While the two cuisines largely remain distinct, allowing diners to choose their preference, it remains a glamorous spot for a lively dinner of sushi or spaghetti. Good for people watching too.
Nobu Restaurant Portman Square
Describing the impact of Nobu Matsuhisa’s fusion cuisine requires more than just words. Sample his signature dishes, like black miso cod, yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño, and spicy tuna crispy rice, all of which herald from his innovative Japanese-Peruvian fusion concept developed in the '90s. And don’t miss out on Nobu’s tequila, exemplifying the high quality that the brand is known for. I dream about the black miso cod when I know I have a booking.
Amazónico
Dining at Amazónico is an experience akin to a festive journey through the Amazon, set against a backdrop of lush tropical decor and samba rhythms in Berkeley Square. The menu spans the Amazon region with offerings like ceviche, empanadas, and skirt steak adorned with vibrant sauces. The newly introduced Japazónico lunch menu adds a Japanese twist to the mix. Lucky for me, walking distance from Ormonde Jayne.
COYA Mayfair
COYA Mayfair exudes a festive aura with its gold accents, marble surfaces, and salsa music. The menu explores Peruvian cuisine with influences from Japanese and Spanish gastronomy, featuring dishes such as lobster and prawn gyozas, Peruvian-style sashimi, and Nikkei rice. Thursdays are special with DJ-led parties that are not to be missed, great day to get your friends together.
Ikoyi
Ikoyi might be best described as a creator of a new cuisine rather than merely a fusion restaurant. It blends West African spices with the finest British produce, often inspired by chef Jeremy Chan’s global travels. The restaurant, which has earned two Michelin stars, offers a tasting menu in a stunning copper-toned setting.
SUSHISAMBA
At SUSHISAMBA, Japan and Brazil collide in a menu that features dishes like black cod anticuchos and crispy yellowtail taquitos. Choose between its Covent Garden location for a vibrant atmosphere or the Heron Tower for breathtaking city views. And don't forget to visit the dazzling SAMBAROOM cocktail lounge for a perfect sharpener to get the evening rolling, or to end your evening.
All great tasting menus
Enjoy
Linda Jayne