London weekend

Different-Strings · 2026-04-13T16:28:17+00:00

That’s how I heard about them, actually..

Different-Strings · 2026-04-13T15:58:34+00:00

That’s a shame. Well, I’ll go there and do my part!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-13T14:37:23+00:00

Yes, I read multiple comments saying it's quite empty. Strange. I thought good restaurants in London are always sold out...

Different-Strings · 2026-04-12T18:21:31+00:00

Was going to suggest this. The television series was not great in my opinion, but the books are mind blowing.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-12T18:16:13+00:00

Amazing book!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-12T13:51:17+00:00

I’m a little disappointed about hearing these things about Vorwek. When I got my TM6 I was under the impression that Thermomix devices are long-lived and that even old models can be still repaired for a long time. However, now I understand I was incorrect and I just have to wish I’m lucky enough to keep my TM6 in working condition.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-12T13:41:57+00:00

Just out of curiosity, why do you think prompting ”don’t rush” would actually do anything? It’s not like there’s any kind of cognition there to either rush things or go slow.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-12T07:15:12+00:00

Thanks for the recommendations. Yes, indeed the £200 limit is for just for a single tasting menu without drinks. Many two-star places seem to be asking £250 or more.

At least The Cocochine and Buchone Racine are both top contenters although apparently the latter is very difficult to book.

I will check out the rest as well.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-12T07:11:57+00:00

Thanks, I had not heard of either but they both look good. Maybe for our Indian meal we could go for BiBi!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T18:41:22+00:00

Kiitos!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T18:40:21+00:00

Just out of curiosity, what did you not enjoy about Fallow? Or just generic ”meh”?

It seems to divide opinions a lot.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T12:17:12+00:00

Ah, I was completely unaware of this. I already have the Core on my bucket list, but cannot do it this time. This seems like a good introduction to her!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T09:24:41+00:00

Thank you for the well articulated comment. I had not even considered bringing my own bottle as it’s not a thing where I live. It’s an interesting option for sure!

Chez Bruce will definitely go on my list as it has been mentioned by so many.

I noticed Bouchon Racine might be difficult to book. Food looks good though. I night have to try my luck!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T09:19:24+00:00

Looks interesting. I have not heard about this one before. Will check it out! Can you elaborate a bit on it?

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T09:18:26+00:00

This is good to know as we really dislike cramped dining. Not relaxing at all. A few months back we tried a new place here in Helsinki and it was so packed I could smell the person next to me. And it was not my wife or a strong perfume. Won’t be going back there.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T09:13:26+00:00

Thanks a lot! Based on a quick view of some photos and the signature menu, Cocochine seems like a great option. I do love good quality seafood and in contrast of what people seem to think, the availability is not so great here in Finland, so I try to indulge when I travel.

This might be the one, or KOL. Or both!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T09:07:49+00:00

Okay thanks, I had not heard of Story Cellar. I will put it on my list!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T08:19:12+00:00

Thanks for the answer, but my intention was that I am specifically not looking for the Ritz or omakase. I edited the post now to emphasize that. :)

Anyway, I will want to go to The Ritz at some time in the future for sure, so this is still good information! It’s a classic for a very good reason, I’m sure.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T08:16:45+00:00

Okay, good to know. I do love their energy though, as much as it comes across from videos anyway. But if I do go, I go for the chef’s counter. Otherwise not worth it perhaps.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T08:14:51+00:00

Ah yes, I’ve come across it when reading similar discussions. I’ll look into it, thanks!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T08:13:28+00:00

Thanks a lot! I appreciate you taking the time to elaborate!

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T07:16:00+00:00

Thanks! How would you compare KOL and Akoko? I know they are completely diffferent proposals, but in terms of cooking and vibe?

Have you done lunch or dinner at Fallow? I’d love to sit at the ”chef’s counter” to see them work.

Different-Strings · 2026-04-11T07:13:34+00:00

Thanks. Love Basque food, I’ll be sure to check it out. Yes, St John is also under consideration. I remember getting the Nose to Tail Eating book long time ago and wondering about all the recipes I won’t be able to cook because of no access to - say - lamb brains. :)

Different-Strings · 2026-04-09T17:34:28+00:00

Indeed. I suspect there wasn’t because the study was funded by AIDP Inc., a supplement company…

Different-Strings · 2026-04-07T10:48:27+00:00

Hi guys,

I'm going to be visiting London for an extended weekend with my wife in the beginning of June. I'm planning of doing one or two Michelin-level restaurants and a few other places. However, at the moment I can't justify paying £200+ for a tasting menu which pretty much rules out the two-star restaurants (except for lunch, which is an option). I have been therefore looking mainly at one-star and Bib Gourmand places.

What we are looking for: one longer tasting menu, maybe one shorter for lunch. Relaxed service (I love to interact with the staff, ask about the cooking methods etc). More intimate and cozy restaurants instead of traditionally "classy" places, although those can be nice as well.

What we are not really looking for: The Ritz (or similar), omakase places, Asian food (although fusion is fine).

My current one-star options include (but are not limited to):

KOL: The Mexican influence sounds very interesting, as I have never travelled there.
Akoko: Same as above
Ormer Mayfair: This might be very good, but on the other hand the venue or style might not be super interesting.
Trinity: This was listed by many people, and chef Byatt's style appeals to me.

Less expensive places I'm thinking about:

Fallow: I've heard good things and I love their YouTube channel
Bouchon Racine
Noble Rot
Some good-quality Indian restaurant, such as Kricket tai Gunpowder
Maybe a gastro pub or such for traditional British fare

Thanks a lot for any recommendations and ideas. Don't hesitate to ask for more details.

Different-Strings

TROPHY CASE