Hot4U

London

Walk in and show yourself to a table. Order the off-menu ox heart and thank me later. It’s a 420 hotbox heaven of smoke. Like the tastiest damn smoke there is. If we powered London on Umut lamb rib smoke, I guarantee we’d be much happier little city dwellers. Cash only, so don’t be a dum dum and remember your purse. Be nice and they’ll give you a T-shirt. I was laughed at for eating their hottest chilli and the chef kindly patted me on the back with a heavy shovel-esque hand as if I was one of his own. I lost full sight for a few minutes. Tears streamed from my eyes. The only thing holding me down in reality was that damn delicious smoke.

You’re up at 3am. It’s not because you’re still up, wide awake, listening to your mate recalling his favourite house mixes. It’s because you are heading to fish Mecca, Billingsgate Fish Market. Get there early and you’ll see pallet trucks loaded high with goods and bounty. Marked and labelled, ready for dispatch to the likes of Ikoyi, Koya and other spots that flex that primo stuff. Before you even begin to search out your treasure across this vista of wet floors and raincoats, turn left. Take yourself into the cafe immediately. Don’t worry about the guy in front taking the crab you had your eye on, there’s more in the back. Just focus on you. A bacon and scallop roll is everything. Vinegary ketchup, butter not spread to the corners, served in a white paper bag. It feels like the joy of surf and turf - shabby chic, boujee trash - is unadulterated in every way. In that moment, right there, polystyrene cup of tea in hand you have made it to heaven.

In a parallel universe where turkey twizzlers don’t exist, this is the kinda food I wish I grew up eating.
It feels strangely like I already did. It’s all so familiar.
Walking into the gardens of an old school it feels as if you’ve already been there a thousand times. Like meeting yourself in another life.
It’s homely. I always leave feeling as if I’ve eaten amongst friends even when out for lunch alone. It’s a place where I feel safe in whatever menu choices I decide on.
As well as never ending banging menu (lunch and dinner), the wine list is always a winner and the negronis are strong as an ox.
I go for something fried, something salad-y, a fish and a potatoes pretty much every time. That said I massively over order and take some home for midnight feasting so it’s a win/win.
I have an awful lot of time for Rochelle and a deep place in my heart for it always.

My friend Siri rocks. The most humble, hardworking and genius one man show I’ve ever known. He feeds me food I’ve never tasted before. I find it incredibly inspiring to try foods like this. It widens the sandbox for me when I think of my own menus.
It makes me question ingredients and their applications.
The food always seems to be at the very peak of its flavour.
How you can push so much concentrated flavour into a stock defeats me. This is truly precision cooking with expertise.
Order EVERYTHING on the specials board.
It changes on the regular.
Memorable dishes are a spicy as fuck rabbit laab, the clams and the pomelo salad.
Remember to say ‘hi’ when you go to the toilet as you have to pass through the dish pit to get there.

Douglas McMaster treated everyone in London the day he relocated Silo from Brighton to Hackney Wick.
Read his book, take the time to understand zero waste and how we can all better our approach to reducing waste where possible or, by turning it into truly delicious, mind blowing food sorcery as Douglas does.
Sustainability can be sexy. Luxury doesn’t need to be wasteful.
There was this one dish of a humble pink fir potato with a hollandaise sauce.
The potato was brined, cooked, peeled, smoked and then introduced to a bath of brown butter. That’s a lot of process. When you eat it, you’ll understand.
They work with some fab favourites such as Flourish Farm, Duchess Farm, Fin and Flounder and Estate Dairy.
Also pop in during lockdown and grab some coffee from the white building market. Stephen and Georgia make ridiculously mean coffee.

HOT4U Share London's Best Hidden Restaurants

Gundelach

Oslo

If you have a little extra to spend, go here. Legendary restaurant with 10-course menu and only 23 seats. This is a place with soul, fantastic food and far too much good wine. Don’t plan anything important to do the next day because you are going to get terribly drunk.

Ask for: Gunnar

Pro tip: After you’ve eaten you can just stumble into the club Skaugum which is in the same weird old building. If you can manage it…

Oslo is a coffee-city and this is the boss. Order an “Anistetta” which is an espresso based iced coffee with aniseed-infused syrup. Addictive!

Ask for my good friend Erlend who runs this sausage-kiosk that he inherited from his father. Just wiener-sausages with homemade toppings. The perfect lunch.

Pro tip: Go to the forest to pick mushrooms in autumn and then visit Syverkiosken afterwards to get your mushrooms inspected. Erlend is a certified mushroom expert!

New bürek spot at the top of Grunnerløkka. Try the traditional spinach and feta one, tasty as hell.

Expensive but delicious! Einer strives for organic and bio-dynamic agriculture and wines. In the basement you can find the bar “Einbar”.

A cosy little café run by a lovely married couple ☺ They make good salads and sandwiches and you can also get a bottle of peroni. They love dogs so feel free to take yours with you or just pet the ones that are there.

Order: Italian vegetarian & tallegio sandwich.

A Turkish family-run restaurant which is located in the “Sagene samfunnshus” (community centre). A lovely place to sit outside in the summer. The best squash cakes in the city.

Order: Squash cakes and bulgur or halloumi burger.

A low key fish restaurant which is located in Mathallen (the food hall). Nice spots to eat outside, delicious oysters and fish and chips with a really good pea stew.

Ask for: my old friend Dre, and then you will get a refill ;)

Eight Places You Need To Visit in Oslo with Gundelach

Farhot

Hamburg

Guess there’s always a rich and a rotten side in the area around any train station. Well, at least in Germany. This one’s defo not the posh side – sex shops, backyard mosques, junkies, pawnbrokers, and you won’t spot too many blonde folks around here. But you can find lots of great Middle Eastern food joints like Akdeniz Tantuni.

Doner Kebab might be the most popular Turkish food in Germany but to me, Tantuni, which is also a type of kebab, is defo in a yumminess league above. If you love kebab, try this!

Feels and tastes like home. This restaurant is named after the Hindu Kush mountain range that stretches through Afghanistan, so if my mom doesn’t have time to cook up something delish on a Sunday, this is where I get great Afghan cuisine.

I just love Vietnamese street food! Lately many places that offer pho and such have been popping up around town but to me this is definitely the best place to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine in Hamburg. Normally, you’d find me at their branch close to the main train station.

Good movies are a blessing and one of my main sources of inspiration. I’ve watched countless great movies at this art-house cinema right in the heart of the university district. Hope they’ll be able to open up soon because I miss that big screen feeling.

Want to get away from the city and just enjoy some peace in nature? Then just grab a bike and cycle along the Dove Elbe, which is the rough, untouched lower part of the Elbe River. Ok, I really think I’m getting old.

Hamburg has always been big on trade and is home to the world’s biggest warehouse district. Here, you can see how goods are delivered and maybe get a discount on oriental rugs if you buy them directly from wholesalers like my dad. The classic architecture of the warehouses is a great contrast to the ultramodern Hafencity buildings.

Greasy! That’s what this little Korean food joint is. Doesn’t really look inviting at all but the food is damn delicious. If you love deep fried food chicken as much as I do, then this is the place to go. Oh yeah, and make sure to check out our KABUL FIRE “DEEP FRIED” PLAYLIST for some extra crispy beats!

If you’ve been feasting on too much greasy food during your stay in HH city and feel the need to burn off some calories, I recommend hitting the Gorilla Gym. From boxing to Yoga. For grown-ups and kids.

Explore Hamburg with Farhot

Oshun

New York City 

Historical market on 116th adorned with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, art, and African-American Culture. Favorite vendors: the fabric stores & the waist bead tables

Upscale rooftop bar and restaurant in LES with a millennial touch. Beautiful view of NYC. Favourites on the menu: Any of their delicious cocktails!

Our favourite hangout spot, right in the centre of NYU. Lowkey kinda sketchy which is cool because anything interesting can happen! Very close to all kinds of food

Fun Nigerian restaurant with a dinner table inside an authentic Lagos-style taxi! Favorites on menu include: efo, akara, and egusi

Cute & small African boutique shop. Everything from clothing, to purses / backpacks, accessories, and interior decoration - this is our go to spot for gifts and fly statement pieces

Falafel sandwich w hummus for $4. Deliciousssssss

Oshun's Top Tips for NYC

Benji B

If I could move in here and (afford to) eat lunch and dinner every day I would. Italian-based food with locally sourced ingredients in a great setting - tastefully done and a special night out but not overly fancy. If it's nice weather sit in the small garden. Food is absolutely banging. I’ve always liked this neighbourhood too.
Who to ask for: Johnny
What to order: Everything on the menu.

One of my favourite local West Indian spots in North London.
What to order: fish stew or curry chicken w/ rice and peas & a veg pattie 
Who to ask for: Don’t ask for anyone, just get in line. Talking of which, if you are in a rush and it's lunchtime this ain't the place for you. Just know that all good things come to those who… wait in a long queue.

Sometimes only Ranoush Juice will do. More of a takeaway snack spot than a sit down place, although there are a few tables if you want to eat and go. Sometimes I realise it's on route to somewhere I’m headed and I’ll divert to make a stop, sometimes I’ll just make the trip especially. I go there for one specific item: the Ranoush Juice Shawarma wrap: one is never enough and two is too much.
What to order: Chicken Shawarma wrap and a fresh carrot juice

Just off Shaftesbury Avenue near Chinatown, serving a Middle Eastern menu inspired by Israeli cooking, Southern Spain and North Africa, the food here is fresh and good for lunch or dinner and is made in the open kitchen, right in front of you.
Who to ask for: Well, if you remember Layo and Bushwaka - The DJ duo closely associated with The End Nightclub in London, this is Layo’s place! So you could ask for him, or shake his hand and say good job.
What to order: Fattoush Salad, Persian Lemon Chicken, Tomato Labneh and plenty of Baharat Farmhouse Bread.

Low-key cafe breakfast spot that keeps it simple and gets it right. Breakfast also might be my favourite meal of the day to be honest.
Who to ask for: Elliot.
What to order: Scrambled eggs on 2 toast with parmesan shaving on top, hash browns and a cup of tea (I don’t eat red meat but if you like your bacon and all that theres plenty of that too).

Had to put a Japanese spot in this list and there are loads I could have chosen but I’m going with Dinings because it is top level Japanese food in an understated place. Was originally started by ex-Nobu chefs in 2006. I’ve eaten there from time to time over the years and it has maintained its quality.
What to order: Hamachi Tar Tar Chips, Unagi Nigiri, Miso Aubergine, Black Cod.

Top floor of the Standard in Kings Cross in London. Mexican and Spanish influenced menu. Environment posh but city vibe, feels like you’re in New York, lighting and design on point, definitely good for a night out. With the location being in Kings Cross, it gives a good mix of people -- and views. Food and drinks top level. Definitely not cheap tho.
Who to ask for: Thomas is the boss.
What to order: Cauliflower Tacos, Spanish Tortilla, Day Boot Fish. A Negroni before or an Old Fashioned after, depending on which way round you do it. Bartenders know what they are doing.

Feels like it would be rude not to include this classic. The OG Arcola street Mangal 1. What is there to say other than that I’ve ended up in here more than few times over the years. I respect this place a lot, the environment in the neighbourhood around this place has changed so much but this place has remained. There are undoubtedly loads of amazing Turkish places in London but this place is a classic.
What to order: Cacik, Tavuk Sis or Moussaka.

Classic Italian family run vibe not tryna be a cool spot but with a classic traditional feel. In a way this is the random one on the list - not sure why I like it so much but I do. Has a casual family feel to it, even if it ends up feeling a bit posh because of where it's located (Marylebone) and who goes there. I think I went in by chance once and I ended up going back. Not on the foodie cool list, you might go there and think “huh?” - but I like it for a secret straight up traditional Italian.
What to order: Cacio e Pepe, followed by Sea Bass.

This place been open for years and years but its hard to tell sometimes which nights it opens. Very simple environment - not a “night out” but good if you want a simple home cooking feel. Low key and casual, sometimes with shared tables. 
What to order: Fresh Bread, Banjon Borani, Lavand-e-murgh.

Benji B's Favourite Restaurants in London

Orange Culture

Lagos

For great breakfast, pop by craft gourmet.

If you want to enjoy an amazing time bouncing - stop by the indoor trampoline park and connect with your inner child.

Fun arcade games, bowling and the option of three different restaurants including one with a rooftop view.

Stop by or order in for great shawarma and fries.

Discover Nigerian contemporary art at its best at Rele in the heart of Lagos.

Catch a beautiful history, beautiful Adire and beautiful conversations with Mama Nike at the Nike Art Gallery. It is truly an experience.

If you want to try delicious suya for the first time, stop by Bukka Hut in the evening.

For super facials, mani peds and relaxing massages, pop by Bnatural in Victoria island, Lagos.

For great spoken word, live bands and delicious food, stop by Bogobiri to enjoy a rich artistic and Afrocentric experience.

If you want to enjoy Nigerian food in a beautiful, architectural space with great vibes stop by NOK. Weekends are great with DJs and bands sometimes hosted while you enjoy great food.

Try the longest bridge walk/canopy walk and also enjoy a nice picnic outside during dry season. Stay hydrated and carry your camera to capture the beautiful experience.

Amazing Japanese food and the option of a beautiful beach view while you sip on a delicious cocktail. Shiro is definitely the spot. At night the music gets really good and you have Hard Rock Cafe in the same compound for a great night out.

Fine dining - this is the place to visit. Steak is amazing.

Lagos with Orange Culture

AZADI.mp3

If you know you know. This spot is infamous in North West for some of the best Thai food you can get for real cheap. The spicy flat noodles are amazing, the curries slap (especially the creamy red curry) and it doesn’t break the bank. What more could you ask for?

This Afghani restaurant is an absolute banger and club classic. You know when the food is so delicious you have to just point your fork repeatedly at your dish while you chew in pure disbelief? Fragrant and fluffy rice, tender and juicy kebabs, and the portion sizes are banquet sized and make my heart sing. A feast for the senses.

With an amazing selection of traditional and regional kebabs, stews and side dishes, as well as the fun individual portions of tahdig - that’s the crispy rice if you don’t already know - this place is a great time. It’s a bit more on the expensive side, but if you want great quality Irani food that feels like it’s been cooked at home by your auntie and then jazzed up to look cute and fancy, this is your place.

Not only are the couple who run this little spot absolutely lovely, but the food they serve is delicious and hits the spot every time. With a mix of Japanese and Korean dishes on the menu, so far everything I’ve tried has been and incredible as well as being very reasonably priced. Amazing value and a lovely wholesome atmosphere.

This place is one of my favourite restaurants on Edgware Road and that’s really saying something. The food always comes with a complimentary lentil soup and some salty pink pickled veg, and the food itself is outstanding, fresh and always delivers. The kebabs here chargrilled to perfection and remind me of eating those banging roadside skewers in Tehran that you don’t really get over here. 10/10.

What can I say about this restaurant without my mouth watering? This Korean BBQ delivers time and time again. The BBQ itself is delicious and great fun to cook at your own table, the side dishes compliment perfectly, the soups are hearty and flavoursome, the tteokbokki is spicy and moreish, and the Korean fried chicken is crispy and flavoursome. This is a great spot to go with a group.

North London is home to many sick Turkish restaurants and Lezziz is no exception. Amazing bread, juicy and flavourful kebabs and always buzzing with locals. A classic.

AZADI.mp3 Gives Us Her Guide To North London

Nico Adomako

Berlin

One of my favourite clubs in Berlin. A lot of good parties like Trade or Hyperaktivist's night are happening here. Also, I just love dark venues where you can dance with your demons.

I used to do my Nico Adomako & Friends nights here. If you wanna check new Berlin DJs or crews, ACUD is where it's happening. If you find time you should go for a No Shade night.

My favourite Japanese spot, I used to go 3 times a week for one of their Bento boxes. The curry is really good as well.

Probably the only spot where they greet me by my name haha. Doyum is one of them places you come to Berlin for. Turkish food at its best. Go here for the lentil soup to cure your hangover.

Very warm and welcoming Jamaican fusion restaurant. I've had some great birthdays here.

Best burger in town in my opinion. Make sure to go to the OG one at Schlesisches Tor, directly under the tube station.

Sunday funday, a lot of nice pop up food spots but you can also get yourself a massage and stuff like that.

Our version of KFC with an Arab touch. Berlin culture basically.

Nico Adomako's Guide to Berlin

Tom Brown

Of course, come check us at Cornerstone. We pride ourselves in championing the best of British fish and seafood, always working with local suppliers. Make sure to always start with some oysters with seaweed hot sauce and try one of our hake kievs filled with whatever’s at its best that season. And don’t forget to say hello!

Best restaurant in London. Maybe the world. Everything is perfect about it. The food is incredible. The vibe. The music. The setting. Lee (chef owner) is the best guy in the world. Honestly can’t talk this place up enough. Lamb offal flatbread will change your life. There are so many iconic dishes actually, but this lamb offal is the one...

A huge inspiration for cornerstone prior to us opening, and has definitely inspired many many more than us. Stripped back shoreditch beautifulness through everything. The food is an absolute masterclass in keeping it simple and letting the produce do the magic. Every cook in the uk could take a leaf out of James Lowes’ book.

Right... this is a bit different because John doesn’t ACTUALLY have a restaurant at the minute... but he will, and he does many pop ups that are incredible. Literally everything he cooks blows your mind. One of the most talented chefs I’ve ever met.

I can’t say anything about this place that hasn’t been said before. It’s an institution. One of the most important place to gastronomy, not just in Britain.. but the world, of the last 30 years. People will be chatting about Fergus, and what he did for food, for the next 100 years.

It’s not a coincidence that the chefs that run all these restaurants are also beautiful, amazing, warm people as well.. Nieves is no different. The love and passion she pours into every dish and detail of this restaurant shows so much. The pinnacle of Spanish food in London (if not anywhere outside of Spain).

Big shout out to our east east east London neighbours in Stratford. Allegra is without a doubt the boujeeiest (that’s a word) spot in Stratford... maybe even in East London. Patrick Powell’s cookery is unbelievable on every level. Doing serious bits in our little neighbourhood. East come on.

The ultimate London pub. No poncey “gastropub” bullshit. Just everything done the way it should be and perfection for it. The terrace overlooking Hackney road in the sun is one of the best spots in London... also an unrivalled Sunday lunch. Epic.

Chef Tom Brown's Top Restaurants to Dine in London

Poppy Ajudha

Steam Down happens every Wednesday at Buster Mantis and is an insane music night run by friends from a jazz background. It’s experimental, spontaneous and very lively. Get there early because it’s completely packed out by the time the music starts.

Best spaghetti I’ve ever had. Made by one lovely man in a little hut.

My favourite restaurant in South London. A mix of Iranian, Turkish and Greek style cooking.

Church of Sound is one of the most inspiring places to watch a live band give you their everything. The stage is in the centre and the audience surrounds. You will be consumed by the music.

I grew up coming to this place. My dad would buy himself crabs to cook and buy me lucky bags from the corner shops, it’s full of colourful stalls and beautiful people living their existence. Check out Rag n Bone, a lil gem of a vintage store at the end of the market.

So many amazing bands pass through this place from Ezra Collective to Nubya Garcia, Theon Cross, Kokoroko and Joe Armon-Jones. We’ve all played here or come to hear amazing new music.

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