By Magdalena Lew
Ayllu, nestled along the scenic waterside of Paddington Central, is a stylish and easily accessible restaurant in Paddington that’s perfect for both locals and visitors. Celebrated for its Nikkei fusion, Ayllu combines the best of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine, inspired by the rich traditions of the Ayllu community from the Inca Empire. The restaurant embraces a family-style dining experience, encouraging guests to share and savour each dish, reflecting the warmth and togetherness of its cultural roots. Whether you’re dropping in for lunch in Paddington, a romantic dinner, or celebrating a special occasion, Ayllu offers a dining experience that seamlessly blends exceptional food, vibrant ambiance, and outstanding service. We were recently kindly invited to indulge in the extraordinary fusion of flavours that Ayllu has to offer.
Ayllu showcases four delectable Sharing Tasting Menus, each curated to highlight the finest in Peruvian-Japanese fusion cuisine. Diners can choose from the Tasting Lima (£39pp), Tasting Cuzco (£49pp), Tasting Machu Picchu (£65pp), or a Vegetarian option (£30pp). Designed to be shared between two, these menus are perfect for a romantic date night or a gathering with friends. With vibrant, flavourful dishes that celebrate the fusion of two distinct culinary traditions, these menus are available daily from 12pm to 9pm, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Upon our arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the host and swiftly shown to our table, setting the tone for a seamless and welcoming dining experience. Located just beneath Smith’s Bar & Grill, the descent into Ayllu feels like discovering a hidden gem, adding a sense of exclusivity as you step into a stylish, intimate space where exceptional food and ambiance await. We opted for the Tasting Cuzco menu, eager to sample a wide array of dishes. The menu included Salted Edamame Beans, Salmon and Tuna Tacos, Chicken Anticuchos, Tuna Tataki, Uramaki California, Grilled Aubergine, Short Beef Rib, Black Cod, and a chef’s choice dessert—churros! Additionally, we couldn’t resist ordering the yucas bravas, Peruvian chips, and chicken bao buns. Experiencing Peruvian and Japanese fusion for the first time, we were blown away by how beautifully the flavours complemented each other. Each dish was superb, but our standout favourites were the salted edamame, salmon tacos, chicken anticuchos, Uramaki California, grilled aubergine, and churros. The sushi in Paddington is not to be missed! To accompany the meal, we chose the Cuba and Pink Dreams 0% alcohol cocktails, which were delightfully refreshing.
The service was prompt and attentive, with the staff ensuring we were well taken care of throughout our visit. The restaurant’s ambiance is truly stunning, featuring rich dark green walls, elaborate décor, and plush banquette seating that adds a luxurious touch to the dining experience. We highly recommend Ayllu and its tasting menus, whether you’re new to Peruvian-Japanese cuisine or already a fan. The quality, presentation, and flavours of each dish are simply outstanding. Ayllu truly is Paddington’s hidden culinary gem!
Check out our Instagram reel below to catch a glimpse of our unforgettable experience at Ayllu!
Ayllu isn’t just about the tasting menus. Weekends at Ayllu come alive with an immersive samba experience that turns Bottomless Brunch London into a vibrant celebration. Every Saturday and Sunday, starting at 1:30pm, dynamic samba dancers take the stage every hour, accompanied by lively DJ sets, creating an atmosphere that invites guests to dance to their heart’s contents and enjoy the energy.
For those seeking indulgence, Ayllu’s Samba Bottomless Brunch is a must-try. Priced at £37 per person for unlimited Japanese-Peruvian fusion tapas, or £55 per person with bottomless wine, prosecco, or the cocktail of the week, this brunch offers the perfect blend of both culinary worlds in a lively, energetic setting.
In summary, Ayllu offers a dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary, blending rich Peruvian and Japanese flavours in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch in Paddington, a special celebration, or a weekend brunch, Ayllu’s commitment to quality, creativity, and ambiance ensures a memorable experience every time. For food lovers and adventurous diners alike, Ayllu stands out as a true gem in Paddington’s culinary scene, leaving you eager to return for more.
