Greek food is a cuisine I rarely crave… but feasting at Meraki made me wonder why. I came to the conclusion that good Greek food is hard to find in London, which is why this new Fitzrovia eatery should be on your radar.
Meraki was opened in summer 2017 by Peter Waney, a restauranteur who started managing restaurants 15 years ago with his brother Arjun. Their foodie journey began with Zuma in Knightsbridge, followed by Roka and La Petite Maison. More recently, the Waney family acquired and revamped award-winning, internationally-recognised The Arts Club on Dover Street. They have also opened Oblix at The Shard, Coya on Piccadilly and Coya Angel Court in The City. So I think it’s safe to say Peter and Arjun know how to create and run a successful eatery in London.
Upmarket and stylish Meraki is found on Great Titchfield Street amongst many other great foodie spots. The staff are instantly welcoming and the restaurant has a smart professional look, decorated in shades of gold and cream.
The menu is split between cold and hot mezze, fresh and raw fish dishes, salads and sharing dishes. We decided to share a selection of the mezze, which all sounded very appetising. First up, a wooden platter of Greek dips, authentic taramasalata (white in colour, not fake pink!), smoky aubergine, and a richly flavoured and coloured spinach and feta dip.
Our waitress offered tips on what specialities not to miss. Delicate and vibrant Octopus Carpaccio, devilishly indulgent Mastelo cheese with a tangy tomato & chilli chutney, wonderfully light Courgette and Aubergine Tempura with a touch of spice and paired with a contrasting tzatziki. I also loved the meat dishes, particularly the Lamb kebab spiced with Meraki’s secret spice mix, they were soft with a crispy exterior and perfectly seasoned.
Head chef Athinagoras Kostakos kindly made a selection of mini desserts for us to sample. The stand out was the Orange-Agave syrup cake with white chocolate namelaka, crispy filo pastry and clementine sorbet. It was moist and satisfying, sweet but light… my guest and I both agreed it was one of the best cakes we had every eaten! The Lacta Chocolate fondant with olive oil ice-cream was also tasty, a more dense and rich pudding for those that can still fit it in.
For stand-out Greek food in London I cannot think of a better restaurant than Meraki. Delicious dishes, an atmospheric dining room and welcoming service. Tick tick tick.
More information and book a table at Meraki here.
