Valentine’s Day: All-day eateries to beguile your beau

Be you a frantic, last-minute spouse, a partner who has been told perilously “I don’t want to do anything special”, or a soon to be at a loose end friend, the day of Saint Valentine is often a brilliant excuse for a treat (for yourself or your significant other). Indeed it’s also worth noting that, in the socially progressive throng that is London, the way to anyone’s heart is likely through their stomach.

With this in mind, here are five incredibly tasty haunts for the epicurean to grab breakfast, lunch or dinner (bring your own romance).

 

Breakfast

Sunday, Islington

There is, without any shadow of a doubt, a brunch revolution happening across London. As you read this, a new brunch popup serving smashed avo has likely opened in your front garden. However, not all brunches are created equal and the fare on offer at Sunday, tucked neatly away in Barnsbury, is absolutely stellar. Changing regularly, the extensive brunch menu caters to all comers, from deliciously fragrant Moroccan baked eggs to a slap-up full breakfast for those with a heartier (or more hungover) appetite to sate.

For further information about Sunday, 169 Hemingford Road, London N1 1DA visit here.

 

Hawksmoor Guildhall, Spitalfields

Those with slightly more substantial breakfast ambitions should look no further than Hawksmoor’s Spitalfields outpost, the Guildhall. Hawksmoor are widely renowned for their impeccably cooked and presented steak, but marginally less known are their breakfasts. If you are looking to share a hearty Valentine’s breakfast, the Guildhall team will present you with a platter to share, including smoked bacon chop, short-rib bubble and squeak, trotter baked beans and grilled bone marrow, amongst other selected victuals. If your constitution will allow it, there is also a selection of breakfast “anti-fogmatics”, including Buck’s Fizz, Bloody Marys and a brilliant Marmalade Cocktail.

For further information about Hawksmoor Guildhall, 10 Basinghall Street, London EC2V 5BQ visit here.

 

Lunch

Maltby Street Market, Bermondsey

Maltby Street Market was originally set up by a handful of chefs and traders who became disenfranchised with the constant churn and tourist trap nature of Borough Market. Now, you can find them turning out mouthwatering street food in the confines of the Ropewalk, a narrow alley running alongside train tracks in Bermondsey. Absolutely perfect for a lunchtime stroll or date, standout vendors include Hansen & Lydersen, who provide meaty smoked Scottish salmon, and the crew at Phatbreads, who expertly create sourdough flatbreads that provide a crisp yet perfectly chewy bite. Once you’ve sampled the food on offer, head over to Little Bird Gin for a crisp and fragrant G&T.

For further information about Maltby Street Market, Ropewalk, London SE1 3PA visit here.

 

Dinner

El Ganso, Broadway Market

Opened by restauranteur Ihsan Tuncay and chef Marcelo Sánchez, El Ganso provides an intimate and welcoming dinner spot after a stroll on London Fields or even a brave February dip in the lido. This is a perfect spot for those who like the social side of eating: assorted tapas and charcuteria are first and foremost on the menu, including wonderfully smooth rosemary manchego and tender pork belly, marinated in garlic and roast pepper. Don’t let the number of options here deter you, as friendly staff will help you pair dishes and wines for a memorable evening’s fare.

For  further information about El Ganso, 59 Broadway Market, London E8 4PH visit here.

 

Uni, Victoria

Helmed by former Nobu chef Rolando Ongcoy, Uni serves a masterfully prepared selection of grilled meats and fish that blend traditional Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. As one might expect from an achingly trendy Central London restaurant, Uni is neatly turned out, but the real standout here is the menu. Amongst a carefully curated selection of dishes from different styles (seabass ceviche brazenly cosies up with seared Wagyu fillet) nothing fails to impress, but two particular highlights are the yellowtail tiraditos and toro sashimi. Uni are also offering a seven-course Valentine’s tasting menu for those seeking a special occasion.

For further information about Uni, 18a Ebury Street, London SW1W 0LS visit here.

Thomas Davidson