As I stood on Rupert Street with the sun slowly descending between buildings, Hovarda appeared illuminated under the evening glow. The open doors teased the senses of passers-by with its abundance of Aegean chic decor, sultry Mediterranean beats and Marianna’s Cretan inspired menu.
Just in case the already delicious bites and vibrant nights weren’t enough, take the keys and let yourself into the ‘House of Hovarda’ an exciting guest chef series that’s been hosting both amazing upcoming and established chefs from all corners. On this occasion, we had the pleasure of an evening with Marianna Leivaditaki and her excellently curated menu. Now it would be evil of me to seduce you with a review of a menu that’s a one-off, so that’s what I’m going to do (albeit briefly, I promise) but you’ll learn that the future guests promise equally tempting menus and inordinate amounts of talent, so stay with me.
It’s not an exaggeration to say that every mouthful of Marianna’s dishes transported me to whitewashed walls, terracotta roofs and rich blue waters.
The stuffed vine leaves were rich and generously filled, the asparagus and delicately whipped yoghurt were a match made thanks to an echo of chilli. The ‘home-cured’ fish must’ve been done so in a magician’s hat because it was magic, and the uncharacteristically light, deep-fried squid chased the preceding dishes down delivering a luxurious ending.
So, knowing you can’t have that (I know I’m sorry) let’s look ahead to Hovarda’s continuation of the series. Next up chef Liam Rogers a Masterchef Professional finalist with10 years of experience, and the accolade of being a chef that helped retain 2 Michelin across two of the finest establishments across the UK. Expect to see a modern take on some heart-warming British dishes featuring homegrown ingredients, such as Wye Valley asparagus and black garlic, Roast halibut and Squab pigeon.
Brad Carter
If, however, you miss Liam on the 24th of May (I highly advise against this) or you wish to take further advantage of this binge-worthy series, you’ll be rewarded with chef Brad Carter and his British landscape inspired menu. Brad frequents the famous Saturday Kitchen Live on BBC One so you’ll be one of the lucky few that have had the luxury of him cooking for you in the chic backdrop of Hovarda paired with the attentive service of the team.
Step in, let the team take care of you and indulge at ‘House of Hovarda‘.
Address:
36 – 40 Rupert Street, London, W1D 6DN
Opening Times:
Kitchen: Tuesday – Saturday: 17:00 – 23:00
Bar: Tuesday – Saturday 17:00- 01:30
Website:
Instagram:
Words by Tom Glover.
