Filipino restaurant and cocktail bar Kinilaw & Buko arrives in Hoxton.
Kinilaw & Buko is the latest venture by chef Francis Puyat (the culinary connoisseur behind 100 Hoxton and halloumi ice cream) and Andrew Zilouf (founder of 100 Hoxton).
The Spot:
Located conveniently close to 100 Hoxton (next door, to be precise), Kinilaw & Buko packs two concepts into one space. Starting with “kinilaw”, this refers to cooking raw seafood with palm vinegar and kalamansi (rather than lime), which – brace yourself for some science here – breaks down enzymes and denatures protein. It’s a popular starter in the Philippines, yet fairly new to London’s sparse Filipino food scene. Something this city has no shortage of (dessert), “buko” is a Filipino ice cream concept served in a baby coconut shell.
The Food:
Chef Puyat reimagines Philipinnes’ popular starter as a main meal, offering a menu that revolves around the ceviche-like dish. Current options include Bagoong fisherman’s treat, (daikon-fermented shrimp, green peppercorns and garlic), Mustasa-cradled duck egg (salted duck egg with grated cured yolk), and Baboy bounty (pork belly, cucumber and chilli). For adventurous dessert lovers, the “Buko” menu includes red bean ice cream with miso-infused butterscotch sauce or lychee ice cream with black pepper popcorn.
The Drinks:
Just like at 100 Hoxton, the dynamic duo have created a list of wines, craft beers and signature cocktails. But here, you can pair your Boracay Paradise (made with Kaffir lime-infused gin and coconut milk) with ice cream. Thank god it’s sweater weather.
The Damage:
The raw seafood dishes cost around £6 £8; ice cream is priced at £3-£5; and cocktail are £7-£8.
In a Nutshell:
Kinilaw & Buko introduces London to more Filipino cuisine, while taking a modern approach. The menu includes many gluten and dairy-free options, as well as vegan-friendly varieties. Oh, and they are currently offering 50% off your dinner until October 20 (we love a good soft launch deal).
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