Inamo Camden is the fourth branch of the Inamo chain, which describes itself as a pioneering Asian fusion restaurant and bar group. Specifically what the group is pioneering emerges as we are led to our table (worth mentioning they were the best seats in the house with a view straight into the kitchen – request if you can): Inamo has found a point of difference from the many mid-value fusion restaurants in London with an interactive ordering system, developed by sister company Ordano.
After an introduction to the restaurant, we are left to play around on the table iPad, and play we did, with everything from the tablecloth to the chef cam (a decent alternative if you don’t land the top table), and most importantly, the menu.
Broken down into Sushi, Asian Tapas, Curries, Salads and Inamo Classics, there was a lot to take in, and the opportunity to preview our order and review before clicking send was appreciated.
The menu also included a cocktail list from which we sampled a Passion Fruit Martini and Kyuri Plum Sour, both easy drinking and a refreshing start to the meal. In warmer weather, the Camden branch will make a great destination for afternoon and early evening with its roof terrace, complete with bar, outdoor heaters and attractive view of the surrounding area.
Service was fast, arguably a little too so as our table (complete with water lily tablecloth) quickly became laden with the entirety of our dish selection. Once we had decided where to begin, the Yum Buns turned out to be a fun and full flavoured sharing dish, the beef a little tough but the pork and duck delicious with the hoisin sauces and herb salad. The Chicken Karaage, hot, crispy and expertly cooked was decadent and moreish, but the stand out was undoubtedly the Claypot Green Chicken Curry. A stalwart feature on the majority of fusion menus, Inamo’s version didn’t disappoint. Rich, creamy and with the perfect level of spice, we were close to ordering a second portion – all the more tempting when it can be done in one click.
Finding room to squeeze in a dessert, we continued along the evening’s playful theme with the Chocolate Popping Candy Dipping Sticks. Reflective of the overall Inamo experience, the dish was fun, tasty, perhaps too gimmicky for some discerning diners, but likely to leave you with a smile on your face.
If Camden is a trip too far for you, perhaps give the Covent Garden branch a try – they’re celebrating their first birthday, and until January 12 diners can receive an enticing 25% discount on food AND drink when quoting “anniversary”. Happy dining!
More information and book a table at Inamo Camden here.
Written by a Thoroughly Modern Miss, Lucy Freedman.