Restaurant of the Month: Ayllu.
If you’re on the hunt for a Japanese-Peruvian dining gem in London, then Ayllu is where you need to be. Nestled beneath Smith’s Bar & Grill along the picturesque Paddington canal, this intimate hideaway offers a culinary experience that’s nothing short of sensational.
With its vibrant yet relaxed decor and a nod to South American roots, Ayllu has firmly planted itself as one of the trailblazers of the Nikkei movement in London – and trust me, it’s worth every bite. The entrance alone sets the tone for the evening. A dramatic descent down a staircase – the restaurant’s name emblazoned in bold, unapologetic lettering – is followed by the sweep of a grand door. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a stunning dining space adorned with dark green walls, plush banquette seating, and decor that’s as elaborate as the flavours you’re about to experience. It’s moody, it’s chic, and it’s the perfect prelude to the feast that awaits.
And oh, what a feast it is. Ayllu’s menu is a masterclass in sophisticated fusion, with every dish as sumptuous as the last. We kicked things off with spicy edamame beans – a fiery little teaser – before getting gloriously messy with the crispy chicken karaage. Coated in a sticky tamarind glaze, this dish is finger-licking heaven. The Creole prawns deserve a standing ovation – grilled to perfection and slathered in a honey-rocoto emulsion, brown butter, and mango. As for the crab tacos? A symphony of flavours, with avocado, yuzu mayo, and tobiko dancing in perfect harmony.
No trip to Ayllu would be complete without sampling the tiradito, and the yellowtail is the star of the show. Picture this: delicate slices of fish swimming in a tangy mix of ponzu, yuzu, and katsu sauce, with pickled grapes, daikon, kumquat, and shiso oil adding a burst of colour and flavour. It’s a dish that screams drama and delivers on every front. And while you’re at it, don’t miss the nigiri – the medium fatty bluefin tuna with truffle caviar is pure indulgence. Oh, and the bao buns? We couldn’t resist the slow-cooked pork shoulder, drenched in chipotle honey and topped with rosemary and chipotle mayo.
Now, a quick word of advice: the plates do get bigger as you work through the menu, so pace yourself. But hey, who’s complaining when the large plates are this good? The slow-cooked short rib is a standout, served with aji amarillo causa, chicha morada sauce, and sweet potato chips – it’s tender, rich, and utterly addictive. The black cod, marinated in miso and paired with bok choi and ginger, is a showstopper. And the grilled sea bass fillet, served with a fresh salad and aji verde, is a light yet flavour-packed delight.
Let’s not forget the drinks, because at Ayllu, cocktails are just as important as the food. They nail the classics – the Pisco Sour is a must – but if you fancy something a bit different, try the Velora. This beauty combines Bombay Sapphire Gin, lime, triple sec, sugar, egg white, and hibiscus for a cocktail that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
Somehow, we managed to save room for dessert (a miracle, really). The churros, served with hazelnut chocolate sauce and a hint of orange zest, are an absolute treat. And if you’re a meringue fan, the pavlova with vanilla Chantilly and fresh strawberries is the stuff of dreams.
Reservations: https://www.ayllu.co.uk/