#4 Peckham, Edinburgh & Oslo.
#4 Peckham, Edinburgh & Oslo.
Where's for dinner, this week?
I’m sitting writing this as rain splatters the window of the caravan; the rolling hills of the Lake District in the distance, dotted with little white sheep-shaped objects, all framed by 90’s orange patterned curtains.
I’m accompanied by a snoozing dog wrapped round my leg, glass of red, cheeks a similar shade from the fire, having just devoured a local cheese board. Doesn’t get much better than this.
This week I’ve got a local recommendation from a friend, a place I’m contemplating driving to this very week, and a live brief from the parents.
Let’s get to it.
1. Taquiza, Peckham
I went to the Carpet Shop in Peckham for a club night a couple of years back, but I had no idea it now doubles as a spot for tacos. Mind blown. And clearly hiding under a rock, as it’s followed by lots of local foodies.
Down the road from me, Taquiza is firmly ‘on the list’ thanks to fellow food writer Cristina, aka Refrain from the Grain, who recently posted a review of the spot on Insta. As soon as I saw it, I just needed to go.
Sandwiched in one of Peckham’s famous side alleys, you’ll find rows of benches, perfect for wolfing down Mexican flavours when the sun’s out (or when it’s not).
Cristina’s menu recos included the Buttermilk Fried Haddock Tacos(!) and Totopos. And on further nosing, they have some incredible specials including beef short rib. It’s also worth noting that the whole menu can be gluten free(!). As with any restaurant, always double check with servers due to local specials and things changing.
As the sun starts to creep out from hibernation, a visit to Taquiza, with a Marg in hand is 100% on the cards.
You can view Cristina’s full review here, and book here.
2. Lyla, Edinburgh
Currently on hols in the Lake District and with a beast of a rental car, I am naturally scanning new places to drive to.
“Scotland’s not that far?”
It’s actually not. Edinburgh is approx a 3 hour drive. Which in the grand scheme of things is nada.
So where would I go if we decide on a spontaneous drive to the Scottish capital? Lyla.
As I’ve mentioned here before, we fell in love with restaurant Noto (and the whole of Edinburgh) on our first holiday together as a couple. But Noto has a few sister restaurants I’ve yet to try.
Lyla, the most recent from Chef Stuart Ralston, is less than 10 months old, and is already winning shiny awards.
The menu promises to bring a “taste of Scotland to the capital”, and consist of a planned experience, should you decide on their 10-course tasting menu.
Start your evening in the drawing room for aperitifs (swanky), followed by the chef’s table for snacks and a run down of the evening. Then you’ll make your way to the ground floor for the main event - a 10 course tasting menu - which will take you back £165 a head.
For a lighter touch, there’s a five course lunch menu for £65, if you fancy dipping your toe.
Gluten free alternatives are offered (which is always brilliant to hear), but as much as I’d like to give the drive a go, I think this spot will have to wait for when we don’t have the dog in toe…
Book a table here.
3. Babbo Ovrefoss, Oslo.
My parents are currently holidaying in Oslo, after we gifted them some flights for Christmas.
In standard Dad fashion, I’ve been told regularly by text just how expensive it is there, and how much this (gift) is setting them back. (£11.50 for a beer. Tbf I’d raging too).
But when I was asked by my Mum if “maybe you could find us a spot for your newsletter,” of course I obliged.
The thing is, it comes with a strict brief. Mum is veggie. Dad is a meat eater. Dad is diabetic. Mum loves cake. Dad loves spice. Mum can’t handle paprika.
Enter Babbo.
The most expensive item on the menu is around £11, but there is no scrimping here. Their ethos is for dining to be ‘accessible, affordable and adorable,’ (cuuuute) and without ever comprising on quality. Can’t argue with that.
The menu consists of Norwegian favourites, some great home comforts, bowls of homemade pasta and sourdough pizzas.
In an expensive city, it’s good to know good value still exists, and if I ever head to the capital, I’ll be checking the place out.
Book a table here.
(I dropped Babbo a note about gluten free options, but am yet to hear back.)
Every week I’ll be tempting you with where your next meal out could be - one in London, one in the UK, and one beyond.
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