Eat & Drink
Originally published on Tuesday, 17th August 2010
Eco-enthused
UJ gets climate credentials at new eatery Otarian.
Here at UJ we have a turbulent relationship with the term ‘eco’. It’s not like we didn’t cry during Wall-E. We just haven’t been terribly inspired by environmentally-friendly efforts. But we’re feeling repentant. A Tokyo Bike has been added to our transport coterie. We’ve ordered more recycling bags. We’re toying with a Barbour wielding, compost heaving ‘Rural Junkies’ outpost. Alright that’s not true – but we’re trying.
Maybe it’s the introduction of Boris’ blue bikes. They’re kind of nifty, and if they came with optional training wheels and an ambulance escort, we’d be down (probably literally). And then there’s the totally feel-good vibe at New York import Otarian, a vegetarian restaurant launching in Soho tomorrow.
Instead of listing nutritional values (how do we feel about that potential legislation lock-down...?) leaving us foregoing our favourites, the menu here lets you know how much CO2 you save by eating their sustainable veg fare instead of the meaty equivalents. The cheerful interiors are all made from recyclable materials (we like the reclaimed glass lamps and woven African ‘Zulu’ chairs) and the menu actually looks tempting – think tex mex burgers with sweet potato chiplets, a ‘Hearties’ section of pastas and currys, and ‘Obesessions’ like melting chocolate puddings and crème brûlées. You can even collect Carbon Karma Credits to reward all your do-goodery.
We’re feeling eco-enthused. And counting carbon is so much more rewarding than counting calories.
Info
Otarian, 181-183 Wardour Street, W1V3FB
www.otarian.com
