With a love of Asian food, I was particularly excited to visit Chef Peter Lloyd’s new restaurant in London South Bank, named Sticky Mango after his favourite Asian dessert. I met Peter a few years ago and was then lucky enough to be invited to his former culinary home, Spice Market. His new restaurant, a partnership between himself and wine connoisseur Nigel Wilkinson, is much more intimate. Spread over three floors it offers diners a chance to experience the feel and taste of Asia in a much more private and intimate setting.
We booked a table for 8pm and soon realised that this is the type of restaurant which will be open late into the evening; the decor was subtle with an abundance of candles creating a very romantic feel. There was nothing over the top or fake about the way the dining rooms had been designed. We let chef Peter decide what we would eat for the evening, after all, he does knows best! Having ordered a bottle of red wine we were soon presented with the tasting menu; we had been assured by Peter that this menu would not leave us hungry. We started with a Thai Green Mango Salad, Malaysian Chicken Curry Puffs and Black Pepper Shrimp which came with Sun-Dried Pineapple, Jicama & Pea Shoots. The Shrimp was absolutely melt-in-the-mouth beautiful. I did let my husband have more than me, but only because it was his birthday. The first main we were served was Monkfish with Malaysian Chilli Sauce and Sautéed Bok Choi, with a side of Wok Fried Tenderstem Broccoli.
Having not even looked at the menu we had no idea what to expect next and were pleasantly surprised when a second main of Mamak BBQ Chicken and Truffle Egg Fried Rice was served. Peter was right when he said we wouldn’t be leaving hungry. Dessert consisted of Sticky Mango, Sweet Sticky Rice, Mango & Whipped Condensed Milk, with a large Pandan Macaron and Kaya Jam and Soy Caramel Ice Cream. I can’t fault the food; it was gorgeously balanced with all the delicious tastes of Asia you hope for.
Sticky Mango is a restaurant that could soon become a personal favourite – a go to choice for fine Asian cuisine. I would recommend you check it out before it becomes too hard to book a table.
