Impactful exotic flavours
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| mackerel, caviar and beetroot |
Even since it first opened in 2017, Ikoyi has become a highly regarded fine dining restaurant with its unusual approach, blending African flavours along with an Asian touch with modern European techniques. It relocated from St James to the Strand in 2022 to a much bigger space with well spread out tables, and became a tasting menu only restaurant and soon it landed itself a second Michelin star. I never got the chance to experience what the buzz is all about so it is about time for me to set things right and give it a go.
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| Crab and rice |
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| Scallop and lemon |
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| Sweetbread and mushrooms |
The tasting menu kicked off with a range of canapes, the crab had a really interesting sweet, spicy yet very umami taste that just make you want more, I suspect it was done to the fermented rice base. One of Ikoyi’s signature dishes is its take on Jollof rice, a beloved dish across West Africa. At Ikoyi, this classic is elevated with a smoky richness that adds depth to every bite. The rice is served with a delicate yet flavorful sauce, which contrasts the heat of Scotch bonnet peppers and the earthy umami from smoked fish. The most enjoyable dish of the day was a piece of lamb ribs, served with chanterelles and octopus. The lamb itself was cooked to perfection, bold, rich and very tender, with an almost creamy melting texture, couldn't fault it at all.
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| Dry aged turbot |
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| Aged lamb and octopus |
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| Jollof rice with lobster custard |
Ikoyi is for sure one unique beast, the food was nothing like I have witnessed before and the flavour was something that really wowed my taste buds. Unusual, and highly creative, while looking so refined and tasting great isn't something easy to pull off, but Ikoyi got it just right and totally deserves its 2 Michelin stars status. The Price is pretty scary at over £300 per person, so for sure this is a place for a special occasion. Simply put, you won't find anything similar to Ikoyi so it is worth a visit at least once.
Food 4.5/5
Average cost without drinks and services:
£320
180 Strand, Temple, London WC2R 1EA
https://ikoyilondon.com/
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