LIMA FLORAL

In a Sentence

Virgilio Martinez’s latest Peruvian haunt. If Lima London is the Michelin ‘serious foodie’ destination, then Lima Floral is its approachable sister.

Decor and Vibe

As with Lima London, the restaurant is casual and basic, although there are subtle design flourishes – expect the wow factor to be served on the plate. For a more atmospheric experience, nab a booth in the piqueos bar downstairs where it’s dimly lit with a sexier vibe.

Flavours

Fresh, sharp and colourful. The sea bream ceviche, Lima’s speciality, is a must to start – slightly sweet, a bit tangy and crunchy, all at once – a prime example of the type of textures, flavours and unusual ingredients used in a single dish. For the mains we had the chicken chalaca, with Andean corn and asparagus and the lamb with black quinoa, blue potato and moreish dry potato. Both were excellent, and – points for the colours and presentation – from blue and black to purple and red, it’s as we said, wow factor. Onto the pisco’s – a highlight. Expect a menu divided into three easy-to-navigate sections; Lima creations, pisco sours, and Lima Fitzrovia specials, the latter includes the Cuento Del Diablo – a chilli pepper infused pisco and UJ fave.

Top Tip

Here, it’s all about sharing and being adventurous. Even though there are starters and mains, we say, get a couple from each section and family-style it. Alternatively, dine downstairs on the small plates – that’s where you’ll find us next visit.

Upshot

The food – original and a cut above, but with a reasonable price tag.