Nestled snugly beneath the bustling Smith’s Bar & Grill, Ayllu Restaurant is a delightful culinary gem tucked away along the serene canal next to Paddington Station. Its charming location sets the stage for a lovely dining experience, where the vibrant fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisines awaits. Despite its luxurious ambiance, Ayllu is affordable for those navigating London’s prices.
Upon stepping into Ayllu, you’re greeted with an inviting atmosphere and a menu brimming with tantalising offerings. With opening hours stretching from noon till late into the evening, there’s ample time to indulge in their culinary creations.
Ayllu’s Instagram (@ayllulondo) offers a sneak peek into the gastronomic wonders that lie in store, but nothing quite compares to the sensory delight of experiencing it in person.
Let’s dive into the feast! Start your journey with the appetiser – a tantalising Guacamole, served with corn tortillas and prawn crackers. What sets this dish apart is the unique presentation, as it’s prepared fresh right before your eyes at the table, adding an extra layer of excitement to the dining experience.
For the main event, prepare your taste buds for a symphony of flavours. From the Yellowtail infused with citrus zest and olive-moscatel vinaigrette to the Tuna Tiradito with avocado sauce and chimichurri sesame seeds, each dish is a harmonious blend of Peruvian and Japanese influences.
Don’t miss out on the Trio of Tacos, featuring salmon, tuna, and avocado variations, each bite bursting with freshness and flavour. The Robata chicken, marinated in teriyaki sauce, offers a succulent taste of Japanese grilling techniques.
The bao buns filled with slow-cooked beef shin, infused with teriyaki sauce, onion, coriander, basil, mint, and aji rocoto cream, are a true revelation.
Savour the Sashimi salmon, impeccably sliced and bursting with freshness, and indulge in the short beef rib, slow-cooked to perfection and served with choclo puree and aji amarillop.
For those craving duck, the Pato Confitado, with its tender duck leg, coriander rice, and smoked amarillo butter, is a must-try.
Now, onto the sweet finale! Treat your palate to delights such as the Salted Caramel Chocolate Ganache with roasted pecan and raspberry sorbet, the decadent chocolate fondant paired with vanilla ice cream, or the classic Churros served with chocolate sauce and orange zest.
For a fruity finish, the passionfruit cheesecake with fresh passion fruit is simply divine.
And let’s not forget the selection of mochi ice cream, offering a delightful array of flavours to round off your meal.
In conclusion, Ayllu Restaurant offers not just a meal, but a culinary journey that’s both adventurous and comforting. From the unique fusion of flavours to the charming ambiance, it’s an experience that’s sure to leave you craving for more. My personal favourites? The guacamole, for its interactive presentation, and the indulgent chocolate fondant. Cheers to Ayllu for a truly memorable dining experience!
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