Floral by LIMA is a vibrant addition to London’s culinary scene. This sister restaurant to the Michelin-starred LIMA in Fitzrovia offers a unique and contemporary take on Peruvian cuisine. My curiosity piqued, I ventured into the heart of Covent Garden to experience this gastronomic adventure.
A Lively Scene and Chic Ambiance
Stepping into Floral by LIMA on a bustling Friday night, I was immediately captivated by the buzzing energy that filled the air. The restaurant, adorned with lush greenery and a mesmerizing mural, exuded a chic and trendy ambiance. Young creatives gathered around tables, enjoying appetizing nibbles and refreshing drinks. The large windows, allowing natural light to flood in, offered a charming view of the cobblestone streets outside. This lively and vibrant atmosphere set the stage for a memorable evening.
Music and Mayhem: A Distraction from the Dining Experience
While the interiors were eye-catching, our evening was slightly marred by the loud music emanating from the basement bar, The Lost Alpaca. It appears we were seated directly above the live band, and the sound vibrations unfortunately disrupted our conversation. However, when I peeked into the bar, the music actually sounded pretty amazing.
A Taste of Peru: Cocktails and Ceviche
To kick off the evening, we indulged in classic pisco sours, a Peruvian staple. My companion enjoyed a subtle and delicate rendition, while I opted for a tangy passionfruit variation. Each frothy sip was a delight, and it was the perfect way to begin our culinary journey.
We couldn’t resist ordering the sea bream ceviche, a Peruvian classic. The fresh sea bream, swimming in a tangy tiger’s milk, was paired with crispy Cuzco corn, chillies, and onion. This dish was a true taste sensation, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Peruvian cuisine. We also sampled the wok beef tacos, featuring succulent pulled beef nestled in crispy tortillas, topped with guacamole and sautéed onions. This dish was deliciously satisfying, combining bold flavors with textural contrast.
A Mixed Bag of Mains: Hits and Misses
Moving on to the mains, we shared the seafood frittura. The perfectly fried fish, octopus, and prawns were light and succulent. The accompanying plantain crisps added a delightful crunch, and the rich sauces complemented each bite. However, the ollucos causa was somewhat disappointing. While the mashed potatoes and cassava were decent, the mushroom and tomato stew lacked flavor and excitement.
To round out our meal, we ordered the chaufa rice, a Peruvian twist on stir-fried rice, and the broccoli. The broccoli, doused in chili and soy sauce, was a delicious surprise, offering a flavorful and spicy kick.
Sweet Surprises: A Delightful End to the Evening
Despite the mixed bag of mains, the desserts redeemingly delicious. The chocolate mousse, with its rich, velvety texture and hints of honeycomb and coffee, was truly exceptional. And the passionfruit pannacotta, beautifully presented with edible flowers, was an explosion of fruity flavors.
Final Thoughts: A Lively Experience with Room for Improvement
While Floral by LIMA offers a lively atmosphere and some delicious dishes, I expected a little more from this restaurant, especially considering its association with its Michelin-starred counterpart. The loud music significantly hampered our ability to enjoy a conversation, and the food had some ups and downs. However, I would definitely give it another try, perhaps focusing on the sharing plates menu next time. Overall, Floral by LIMA is a vibrant and exciting addition to London’s culinary scene, offering a taste of Peruvian flavors in a stylish and energetic setting.
