essence info

Websites: www.stephaniebrookes.com
Twitter: @stephbrookes

BAO

53 Lexington Street, Soho, London W1F 9AS
www.baolondon.com

For the ardent foodie, this relative newcomer to the Soho restaurant scene is already as famous for its long queues as it is for its food. When I first ventured to BAO, I didn’t have the patience to wait in line, however, on the second visit, I thought there had to be a reason for such steadfast devotion. As I happened to be dining alone, I was seated quickly, which I discovered is actually the best way to experience BAO.

As I sat at the communal table, I watched as little plates of fluffy steamed buns were promptly presented to my fellow diners, and then devoured just as quickly. Over my many visits, I’ve become a fan of the classic braised pork, peanut powder and coriander. For those who haven’t tasted a bao, otherwise known as a steamed bun, it is an absolute treat. The soft, pillow-like texture of the bao, with the tender pork filling and aromatic coriander is a moreish and satisfying bite. The soy milk-fried chicken with Sichuan mayo and golden kimchi is another favourite. For a little sweet treat at the end of feasting, try the fried Horlicks’ ice-cream bao. You’ll be queuing up again in no time!

Grain Store

Granary Square, 1-3 Stable Street, King’s Cross, London N1C 4AB
www.grainstore.com

As we’re now very much into the spring season, there’s nothing better than discovering London’s best restaurants for dining alfresco. I have to admit, even when it’s freezing, I’m usually that person with three scarves sipping my coffee on the one, lonely table outside, but when it’s time to actually enjoy the weather, eating outside is definitely my dining option of choice. Venture over to the recently developed Granary Square in King’s Cross to see how the area is very much geared towards enjoying London outdoors.

The ideal dining venue aside, the real star of the show at Grain Store
is its seasonal menu that makes a point of really showcasing the restaurant’s vegetable dishes. On my first visit, I had a very memorable red lentil and chickpea hummus, sprinkled with
sprouting beans, spicy labneh with egg and flatbread. On my recent visit, although I’m bending the rules here, I ordered a new dish of pumpkin and spelt ‘risotto’, homemade boudin blanc, morels and sweet wine sauce.

This restaurant really is the perfect choice for a lazy weekend brunch, especially as the cocktail menu is so impressive. Try the Aubergine Sour made with aubergine rum, lime juice, sugar syrup and egg white. Just try and get that outside table – it’s worth the wait and the food is definitely deserving of a second visit.

La Fromagerie

2-6 Moxon Street, Marylebone, London W1U 4EW
www.lafromagerie.co.uk

It’s no secret that La Fromagerie is one of the top places to source some of the finest cheeses in London. What might not be talked about as much is the gorgeous little café, called No. 6, which forms part of La Fromagerie’s unique charm.

The well thought-out menu is a mixture of seasonal specials, small plates and classic dishes. My favourite of all is the La Fromagerie ‘Ploughman’s’ which is a great option for those who want to try a little of everything, including Keen’s cheddar, jambon fumé, fresh sourdough as well as tangy pickle matched perfectly with each component on the plate. I’m sure the question: “The usual?” will be asked if I continue to order the same option for much longer. That’s the thing though about a perfect dish – why choose anything else?