The king of steak
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| King crab rice |
Launched by the Txuleta specialist importer: Nemanja Borjanović, Ibai showcases the essence of Basque cuisine with a modern twist. Ibai is my London launch of the year so far and perhaps does the best steak in London. The team at Ibai brings traditional Basque grilling to life, presenting a menu that highlights simplicity, seasonality, and the robust flavours of Basque cuisine. The ambiance is warm and stylishly rustic, ideal for both intimate gatherings and business lunches. I have become a loyal fan since it launched in early summer 2024, the below captured my 6th and 7th visits.
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| Red prawn and black pudding toast |
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| Red prawn tartar |
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| Wagyu beef, chickpea and cheese |
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| Grilled scallop |
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| Wagyu beef and crab meat pintxo |
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| British tuna |
Something new on the menu was a white crab topped with some aged British wagyu pintxo, a cold surf and turf dish combining the sweetness of the crab with the richness of the beef, an interesting twist on the classic Basque bar snack. Steak is the real deal here, and if I only get to pick one, I would go for the Galican T bone, as you would get both sirloin and fillet cuts. The steak is charred on an open fire and topped with olive oil and beef fat, which gives it a lovely smoky burned-like surface. Yet the meat is very mellow and moist. While packed with a bold meaty taste, Hawksmoor doesn't come even close.
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| Grilled red prawns |
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| Wagyu beef T bone |
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| Galician beef T bone |
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| British wagyu beef fillet |
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| Galician rib steak |
I have pretty much eaten the entire menu over 7 visits but I am not tired of it yet. I pop in once every few weeks for a reason, as the food is outstanding. Whether you’re craving rich, smoky meats or lighter seafood options, Ibai offers an authentic taste of the Basque region right in the heart of London. You don't need to be a Basque cuisine lover to love Ibai, as long as you like good seafood and good steak, this is the place for you.
Food 4/5
Average cost without drinks and services:
£80 (dinner)
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