My first international trip since the Pandemic began was to London. It was fantastic to travel again after feeling land-locked for so long, but it’s a different experience from my October 2019 trip, with all the Covid protocols to navigate on both sides of the pond.
Apart from seeing loved ones after an almost 2-year absence, it was fun revisiting our favorite restaurants. Along with the gold standards we also made a couple of interesting discoveries. Read on…
In no particular order of preference, first up is Noble Rot Soho. In pre-pandemic times it was nearly impossible to get a reservation, but this trip it was a breeze. The vibe is elegant, cozy and relaxed. One of my favorite meals of the trip was their signature dish roast chicken and morels and vin Jaune, which is supposed to be for 2, but was ample for 3 of us for lunch.
Whole roast chicken with morels and Vin Jaune
Noble Rot’s upstairs banquette seating and dramatic wall panels illustrating Soho’s night-time street scene: Noble Rot Soho
Asma Khan is the owner of Darjeeling Express and we learned about her on Chefs Table via Netflix. Originally from Calcutta, Asma specializes in the Mughlai dishes of her royal ancestors and Calcutta’s street food. The all-women team of housewives headed by Asma have been together since day 1, preparing spectacular homestyle dishes served on huge platters - Royal Thalis, meant for family-style sharing.
Royal Thali is a preparation of several generous portions of different dishes served on a tray…if this dish is ordered everyone has to have the same
Our friend Raj introduces us to his friend, Asma Khan
Asma is a woman of vision and firm conviction who’s passionate about the food she cooks and the patrons she serves. If Indian food is your thing Darjeeling Express is well worth a visit: Darjeeling Express
The River Café in Hammersmith is a tried and true favorite that never disappoints. When I called mid-July to make a reservation I was told they had nothing available until mid-October. I laughed because it sounded so absurd, but it turns out that the night we were there it was completely packed. Some restaurants may struggle, but it’s certainly not the case here.
Mega-hydrangeas in full beautiful bloom
Every seat filled and most are settled in for the evening: The River Café
Last, but not least is Scotts in Mayfair - Apart from the food which is fantastic, its glamorous vibe makes you want to make an effort, dress up and enjoy a night on the town.
Although I promise myself I’ll try something new I always go with the dover sole because it’s so good: Scott’s Seafood & Fish Restaurant