Octopus
It always feels like most exciting new restaurant openings are in East London, and whilst I haven’t yet figured out why, every so often I like to cross the river and check out what all the fuss is about. I must confess I was attracted to Tuyo, because it comes from an ex-Salt Yard chef and when I read this I immediately thought of the mini Ibérico pork and foie gras burger I had first enjoyed at Taste of London. Tuyo is located on an unassuming street, conveniently across the road from a pub just in case you need to catch the end of the Tottenham v Chelsea match before eating dinner.
The décor is effortlessly stylish, with large windows, wicker shades and gorgeous plates, which in many ways is reflected in the food and service. The staff is attentive and warm, with a slight nervousness that is actually endearing not unsettling. The Mediterranean inspired menu consists of small plates with dishes that are simple in flavour but feels thoughtful in cookery and plating.
Burrata
The evening began with 2 New Fashioned cocktails, (I think it was 2 for 1 cocktails of the same type all night) followed by burrata with tomatoes and basil, unlike the black beans, confit mixed peppers and sourdough croutons I had my heart set on, this was a classic flavour combination where the only thing missing was a tastier tomato. Next up Prawn and Padron Pepper, grilled, succulent and a pinch of salt away from perfection.
Ox Tail Croquettes
You know I have a thing for balls, they are easy to eat, great for sharing and I love the idea of packing lots of flavour into a mess-free morsel. These croquettes were conceptually inspiring and I look forward to going back to my kitchen and giving these a go, after all they’re so cute!
Duck Breast
It’s hard to decide whether duck or lamb is my favourite meat, it is especially difficult to think about when I’m having a little break from meat at the moment, nothing dramatic just giving my system a little breather. This dish was cooked really well and visually stunning with the dots of vibrant carrot purée. We put that grill to work as we also enjoyed the octopus that was caramelised nicely.
COCO
After we finished our savoury dishes this is when our waitress shone. She became an undercover upselling queen and we ended up ordering a Tuyo Coffee, a BM Coffee, COCO dessert and two Moana cocktails! I loved her hustle and I loved the Coco dessert even more. It had a biscuit crumb base, which gave texture to complements the “foam”, which was light as a feather. I felt like I was eating yummy coconut clouds tossed with fresh berries that didn’t leave you with that guilty stodgy feeling after indulging in something sweet. This dessert was the highlight of the meal for me, a brilliant way to finish with a perfect dish, the description on the menu does not do it justice so don’t miss out on COCO. I look forward to seeing how Tuyo will evolve, but thanks for now for providing me with a meal filled with ideas and staff as sweet as pudding.
Live, Love, Eat!
April x
