A risotto bar

Leaving Soho House slightly tipsy at 17:30 I had one hour before meeting Michael for dinner. My original plan had been to visit my favourite shops after meeting Johan and then even have plenty of time to go back to the hotel and drop off my computer and other stuff. But I guess not…

My first stop was Origins at Neal Street. Not that I needed anything, but being so close I just had to pop by. And yes I did buy some new products. Another mega mushroom product and a peppermint aromatherapy bath liquid. Both very nice I should add. Cloths shopping at Next was second on my agenda, but after having problem trying on two very cute skirts I realised that I was really not in a state for cloths shopping. Some strong coffee was more in order. So thank God for Caffé Nero and the best espresso this side of Milan.

Feeling like having Italian food Michael and I walked up to Goodge Street trying to find a restaurant Philip recommend. But when I noticed a sign saying Ooze Risotto Bar I could not walk another step. We just had to go there. Risotto is one of my favourite dishes. That creamy rice and cheese are just sooooo comforting and can change a bad day into a good one. Not that Tuesday was a bad day, on the contraire, but nothing beats that feeling of comfort.

We started out with bruschetta of the day, which was one classical with tomatoes and olive oil, another one with olive paste and last but not least one with mascarpone and fresh figs. That last one was just a perfect combo of sour and sweet.

For main course Michael went for another today’s special with sausages from Naples (or Venice) while I decided to have red wine risotto cooked with grilled sirloin strips and rocket. Another perfect dish that more or less took my to heaven and back.

Trying to wean off chocolate I opted for panacotta with fresh raspberries and blueberries for dessert. Another perfect dish that concluded one of the best Italian meals I had in a long time. Everything was just so pure and simple, but very tasty and made with lots of love and passion. I will return for sure.