Lama In Chronicles: A Palate-Pleasing Journey
Llama Inn opened in New York back in 2015 and now offers a unique and refreshing take on South American cuisine in London too! From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a cozy and vibrant space adorned with colorful artwork, rustic furnishings, and a welcoming atmosphere that sets the tone for a delightful dining experience.
The restaurant’s interior is a captivating fusion of modern design and traditional South American elements. The dimly lit space exudes an intimate vibe, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and a touch of greenery create a lively ambiance that’s both inviting and stylish.
The service at Llama Inn is attentive and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and eager to offer recommendations or explain unfamiliar dishes.
What I Ordered:
The beverage menu at Llama Inn includes an array of South American-inspired cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic options. Peruvian classics with a Japanese twist in cocktails were expertly crafted and beautifully presented, while the wine list offers a thoughtful selection of both local and international choices that pair well with the vibrant flavors of the cuisine.
*Cabbage Anticucho, Chancaca, Saikyo Miso, Quinoa Furikake
This was a true testament to the chef’s innovative approach to South American cuisine, blending traditional elements with unexpected Japanese twists. The chancaca and saikyo miso glaze added a delicate sweetness that’s both complex and well-balanced. The quinoa furikake not only provided a pleasing crunch but also introduced an unexpected umami twist that complemented the dish.
I mean, seriously, I could’ve chowed down on a whole bowl of this cabbage…haha.
*Pork Shoulder Slider, Sweet Potato, Salsa Criolla, Spicy Mayo
The dish showed up looking all cute with that tiny, colorful slider bun. The dish achieved a harmonious balance of flavors, with each component contributing to the overall palate. The mayo had this spicy kick that I loved – seriously, my fave part! It played so well with the sweet and rich pork. The combination was carefully calibrated, ensuring that no single element overwhelms the others.
Crispy Squid & Yuca, Aji Rocoto, Choclo, Cancha
So, that crispy squid? Total texture win! It was all crunch on the outside and then, bam, you hit that tender seafood goodness. And the yuca with its starchy sweetness, provided a mellow counterpoint to the squid’s brininess. But, the aji rocoto sauce didn’t quite do it for me. Too much tang, you know…
Bok Choy Salad, Huacatay Caesar, Grapes, Sunflower Seeds
The dish was a burst of color, all the ingredients hanging out in there. The bok choy leaves got placed with care, their deep green playing cool against the lively grapes. And those sunflower seeds brought this down-to-earth vibe.
The bok choy’s crispness was met with the juiciness of the grapes, creating a harmonious interplay between textures. The huacatay Caesar dressing had a fancy twist on the usual, adding this cool herby kick that’s like, “Hey, wake up!” Oh, and those sunflower seeds added this satisfying nutty crunch that just clicked with everything else in the salad.
Lomo Saltado, Scallion Pancake, Rocoto, Pickled Chillis, Fries
Talk about a carb-loaded party! We’re talking rice, pancakes, and potatoes all in one go – heaven, right? The beef was crazy juicy, sautéed to perfection and soaked in that marinade goodness that totally clicked with the rice. And then there’s this scallion pancake – a touch of oniony awesomeness that just jived with the beef’s depth. And the fries brought that satisfying crunch to the party.
But you know what was the real MVP? That tender beef, all juicy and succulent. I mean… And the best part? You can go all mix-and-match with this dish – beef with rice, beef with pancakes, veggies-only – it’s a whole flavor adventure!
Conclusion:
Llama Inn London is a hidden gem that brings the vibrant culinary culture of South America to the heart of the city. With its captivating ambiance, attentive service, and innovative dishes that pay homage to traditional flavors while offering a modern Japanese twist, Llama Inn is a must-visit for those seeking an adventurous yet comforting dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer of South American cuisine or a curious newcomer, this restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your memory.
*Psst, heads up! The entrance is sneaky. So, don’t go into the Hoxton Hotel. Just giving you the heads-up!
