Bowls

Doing what it says on the tin, all the food at Bowls is served in bowls. It's an approach that underlines the homely, comfort-food vibe that is the restaurant's USP, but it also means that in some cases the bowls are not the most practical choice of dining ware. Still, it's a small annoyance considering the quality of the food and the atmosphere.

Sticky and tender pork belly bao buns, and a subtle, fresh-flavoured prawn tostada with guacamole and mango, both impressed as starters. To follow, melt-in-the-mouth curried goat was gamey and rich, while the jerk chicken with rice and plantain had recently had its heat levels toned down by the Jamaican mother of one of the staff – a nice touch of authenticity that has resulted in a proper winter warmer of well-balanced spices.

Large portions add to the comfort-food feel, while fun staff deliver very friendly service. While we’re not convinced the bowls idea is 100% necessary (there's even a wall covered in them), for an affordable and casual dinner out, you won't go wrong here.

If you haven’t already guessed from the name, the shtick at this Soho joint is that all of the food comes served in bowls. Found in Saint Anne’s Court, the colour scheme here is all bright turquoise, olive green, and salmon pink, while you’ll also find a collection of quirky bowls from around the world displayed on the walls.  

The international menu takes influence from the Caribbean, South America and South East Asia, with dishes including the likes of jerk chicken with jollof rice, quail’s egg and fried banana, and braised pork belly with flat rice noodles in a homemade broth. Elsewhere on the menu, you’ll find soups and salads, while you can wash it all down with prosecco on tap. Cocktails meanwhile, include sips such as the Aloha Royal, which blends rhubarb liqueur with bitters and prosecco.