Iré Hassan-Odukale is co-founder and Managing Director of Ikoyi. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, he moved to England at the age of 16. In 2017 he opened Ikoyi with childhood friend Jeremy Chan - a restaurant with spice-based cuisine built around British micro-seasonality. It now has two Michelin stars and is ranked No.42 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants List. As a resident of St John's Wood he's agreed to give Hot Dinners his top food and drink tips for the area.
Oslo Court
Charlbert Street, London NW8 7EN
Oslo Court is a hidden gem on the ground floor of an apartment block of the same name. With the pink napkins, tablecloths, dessert trolley, and elderly clientele, it feels like you have stepped back into the 80s. The food is good, with classic French dishes, big portions, and various options. But it is the service that keeps you coming back, warm and friendly but always professional and polite. The setting makes for a truly memorable dining experience as it allows you to escape to a time when dining out was special.
L'Aventure
3 Blenheim Terrace, London NW8 0EH
This little French restaurant tucked away on a residential street in St. John's Wood is a family favourite and has hosted birthdays and family celebrations over the years. It is owned and run by a lovely French lady who, along with her team, makes you feel welcome and taken care of. The handwritten menu changes frequently and is full of French classics cooked to perfection.
Unico
138 St John's Wood High St, London NW8 7SE
I have a bit of an obsession with Italian gelato, and Unico, on St. John's Wood High Street, does gelato well; they also offer delicious coffees, pastries and cakes.
Johnny Green
87 Allitsen Rd, London NW8 7AS
A more recent addition to the St. John's Wood dining scene, Johnny Green is a great Australian Brunch spot that never fails to deliver, especially after a big night out.
The Clifton
96 Clifton Hill, London NW8 0JT
St. John's Wood has quite a few pubs, but The Clifton on Clifton Hill will be my favourite. It is cosy, the food is great, and they have a lovely garden that is great in the summer. It's a good place to spend a Sunday with friends.
For more of these local area guides, visit the My Manor page.
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