LIMA Fitzrovia is a vibrant representation of Peru’s finest cuisine, nestled in the heart of Fitzrovia taking you on a spin to experience the famed native South American flavours like no other.
Opening in 2012, the establishment leaves no place to wonder as great seasonal produce, sourced in the British Isles, tells an investing story of the restaurant chain’s journey. Launched and run by brothers Gabriel and Jose-Luis Gonzalez, Fitzrovia is the latest addition to an incredibly successful burst of restaurants and honours their 10th birthday this year. Exploring contemporary design, not only in interiors but on the tasteful menu too, a showcase of Peru’s capital is brought to the bustling streets of London.
LIMA Fitzrovia Interior
Upon arriving at the cosy, intimate place, we are greeted by a collection of warm hosts and taken towards the back of the restaurant. Art-deco-inspired décor surrounds the room and humble lighting presents a great spot for friendly catchups, date nights, or even spontaneous ‘treat yourself’ trips.
As we begin to scour the À La Carte menu, a round of house favourite cocktails appear on our table, the Pisco Sour. A smooth blend of pisco quebranta and lime heightens our tastebuds for the evening ahead, and we immediately look forward to what is yet to come.
LIMA Fitzrovia
For our first course, we opt for the Octopus and Prawns Causa and the Hand-Dived Scallop Tiradito, seafood appears to be a speciality for this restaurant, and we are about to find out why. A delectable bowl of crushed potato, bojite olives, cevichera sauce and tobiko is served amongst the octopus and prawns, and the food just melts in the mouth – aach flavour brings its own story to the palette and accompanies the seafood perfectly.
An olive oil and lime emulsion, served with plantain and coriander, joins the scallops upon an elegant half-cut shell and a bed of dried corn for decoration. Just as if the beach had been brought to the plate. The tartness of the lime becomes a foolproof partner to the main dish, and it is safe to say our dishes are returning clean. (Apart from the extravagant display.)
LIMA Fitzrovia
Once taken away, another round of our new favourite cocktails is brought over and from the smiles on our faces the first time, they needn’t ask for our permission. We choose a vegetarian dish for our main course, the Cauliflower Quinoa along with the Wagyu Beef Saltado.
When they arrive, the wagyu is surrounded by crispy potato, steamed jasmine rice, and a dream-worthy pot of a warm soy sauce concoction. Hands down one of the best meals I’ve had in London as the beef is cooked impeccably. The cauliflower quinoa is also a placeholder with my guest, served with salsa cacahuete, peanuts and hoisin, the dish is a great option for veggie diners.
LIMA Fitzrovia Wagyu Beef Saltado
As we begin to wonder how we could fit in anymore once finished, a lovely waiter guides us through all the food we have eaten this evening. All the staff appear to have a great love for this restaurant and the food they serve, having this kind of passion for the environment makes everything taste that much better.
Once convincing us that a dessert is a good option, we decide upon a selection of mini cheesecakes, served with passion fruit and raspberry sauces, and a chocolate mousse replacement for their sold-out Chocolate Fondant, which we helped wash down with the classic Espresso Martini.
LIMA Fitzrovia Interior
I will definitely be returning to LIMA Fitzrovia again, especially over the Christmas period, to try their new festive tasting menus, and I also urge you to.
by Alicia Tomkinson