Nopi, Soho – London, UK
Nopi, a popular Soho brasserie has many of the hallmarks of Ottolenghi, but with a slightly different feel to his delis.
Atmosphere
A delightful gem, just far enough away from the Regent Street bustle to maintain a certain element of charm, this place has a fabulous ambiance, fantastic food, and outstanding service.
Service
I arrived on a Saturday morning with no booking, hoping for a walk-in brunch. I was greeted warmly and immediately shown to a table, having been advised it would be needed for a reservation by 12 p.m. I had no problem with that and was grateful for the clear communication. Whilst awaiting my dining partner (my sister, Paula, who will no doubt feature in many of my London reviews), I was given the menu and offered a beverage. There was no rush and the restaurant had a very relaxed yet efficient vibe.
Presentation, Quality, and Taste
The breakfast and lunch menu made no reference to brunch per se, but it did feature all of the typical brunch items, from toasts and pastries, eggs and yogurts, with the added bonus of some truly unique dishes like scrambled tofu on sourdough with rose harissa and avocado salsa. I chose the beef brisket hash with gremolata (a chopped herb condiment classically made of lemon zest, garlic and parsley) and a fried egg. I was not disappointed. A succulent stack of beef brisket was partnered with crushed potatoes and a fried egg with still-runny yolk. Usually, one to select the Shakshuka (eggs poached in a sauce of tomatoes, chilli peppers, and onions, often spiced with cumin), Paula chose the mushrooms on sourdough with a poached egg. It looked as appetizing as my meal, and she confirmed it tasted as good as it looked.
Beef brisket hash with gremolata
Mushroom on sourdough with a poached egg
I will most definitely be back, and hopefully very soon. Ten out of ten and a big thumbs up from me.
The Bottom Line: 5/5 Brookie Stars
Nopi is just one of Yotam Ottlenghi’s successes; from his fabulous delis and amazing restaurants through to his exquisite cookbooks the man is pure genius. Nopi offers a luxurious dining experience in the heart of London that is too good to miss.
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With 30 years of general management experience in the global insurance industry and having lived in 4 countries, Jacqui now spends her time between London and New York where she continues to pursue her passion for writing, food, books and travel.
A Reiki practitioner, yogi and huge animal advocate, her home isn’t complete without a furbaby or three. In addition to being a BooknBrunch contributor, she writes for industry publications.
Favourite book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
Favourite brunch dish: avocado toast with tomato and chilli
