Viajante
Patriot Square, Bethnal Green, London E2 9NF
With chef of the moment, Nuno Mendes, at the helm, Viajante, situated in the glamorously restored Bethnal Green town hall, is well worth splashing out on. The exquisitely pretty dishes are based on Portuguese cooking, but with oriental influences in the presentation and flavour combinations. It’s best to go for a number of small courses, which are paired with wines: dishes might include squid tartare and pickled radishes, samphire and frozen squid ink; braised octopus with pimento potatoes, chorizo and eggs; or pig’s neck, savoy cabbage, fried capers and grated egg. Round things off with dainty petit fours. It’s not a cheap night out, but may be one of the most memorable meals you have hereabouts.