By Why Paradise in Soho is a Must-Visit for Food Lovers in London
If you’re a food lover in London—whether you’re familiar with Sri Lankan cuisine or just passionate about discovering new flavors—you simply cannot miss Paradise in Soho. As food critic David Ellis points out in his review for The Evening Standard, this restaurant not only brings Sri Lankan flavors to life but also redefines what a dining experience can be. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time diner, Paradise promises a journey of the senses that’s unforgettable.
A New Approach to Dining
Under the direction of owner Dom Fernando, Paradise has shifted from the traditional à la carte menu to an exciting six-course tasting menu priced at £65. This decision reflects a deeper commitment to providing diners with a thoughtfully curated experience that celebrates Sri Lankan cuisine in its most refined form. The menu, divided into three sections—meat, seafood, and vegetarian—ensures there’s something for everyone, but it’s the way the dishes are prepared and presented that truly sets Paradise apart.
The atmosphere of Paradise matches its forward-thinking approach to dining. Described as minimalistic, the decor channels the industrial vibe of a multi-storey car park, creating a cool, intellectual environment that draws a young, trendy crowd. The music—Khruangbin tracks adding to the vibe—complements the chic, modern setting, making it an ideal spot for those who like their food experiences to feel a little bit rebellious and a lot fresh.
The Six-Course Menu: A Culinary Journey
The six-course tasting menu at Paradise is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through Sri Lanka’s bold, vibrant flavors, expertly crafted and beautifully balanced. Here’s a glimpse of the standout dishes:
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Rasam: A fiery start to the meal, this traditional Sri Lankan soup is reinvented with lacto-fermented raspberries in place of the usual tomato base. The result is a stunningly tangy and spicy kick-off that sets the tone for the meal.
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Kimbula Banis: A playful fusion of Sri Lankan and French pastry traditions, this dish is a cross between a croissant and a thousand-layer potato. It’s indulgently filled with date and lime chutney, offering a sweet, sticky contrast to the heat of the earlier courses.
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Scallops and King Oyster Mushrooms: Served with a rich, aromatic broth, this dish highlights the luxurious flavors of the sea while the king oyster mushrooms add depth and earthiness. A beautifully crafted pairing that elevates both ingredients.
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Prawn-Topped Roti: The roti here is drizzled with coconut, and the prawns are glazed in ginger, garlic, and chili, making for a harmonious blend of sweetness and spice that tingles the palate.
The tasting menu continues to impress with dishes that highlight both traditional and modern Sri Lankan flavors. Throughout, the use of spices is daring—intensely flavorful with fiery kicks and unexpected moments of sweetness, which serve to keep each course exciting without ever overwhelming the senses.
Food Quality and Value
At £65 for a six-course menu, Paradise offers an incredible value for the quality and creativity on the plate. Despite using high-end techniques and ingredients, Fernando’s team ensures that the food is accessible and approachable, allowing diners to enjoy refined dishes without feeling out of place. The complex flavors and bold spice combinations make every bite an experience, and the unique twists on Sri Lankan classics provide an extra layer of intrigue that’s hard to find elsewhere.
A Sensory Connection to Sri Lanka
For those who have visited Sri Lanka, the flavors of Paradise will bring back vivid memories of the island’s beaches, tuk-tuk rides, and vibrant markets. Ellis reflects on the sensory experience of the meal, noting how the spice-laden dishes evoke the feeling of being in Sri Lanka, without ever leaving Soho. The food at Paradise has the ability to transport diners to another world—a world of sun-kissed beaches, bustling street food markets, and the rhythmic hum of tuk-tuks.
An Unmissable Destination for Food Lovers
Overall, Paradise is a standout restaurant in London, offering an exceptional taste of Sri Lanka in a modern, unpretentious setting. Whether you’re seeking an introduction to Sri Lankan cuisine or looking to explore it in greater depth, Paradise is the perfect place.
