Recently opened Italian-Japanese fusion eatery, Beiriso, brings a tasty assortment of lunchtime and on-the-hoof dining options to the hectic streets of Holborn that’s bound to woo passers-by with affordable prices and a mostly health-conscious selection of food and drink.
I have to admit my eyes rolled involuntarily when I read the release about the Italian-Japanese concept behind Beiriso. Taking its name from the word for rice from each language (“bei” in Japanese, “riso” in Italian), the moniker could have just as well meant ‘oh brother’ to me. But I was going to be in the area, and the soft launch opening time suited my schedule allowing me an opportunity to catch up with an old friend over a quick lunch and cup of coffee – which in this case was actually a green tea chai latte (and a really yummy one at that).
From my first sip throughout the rest of my meal, I was generally impressed with the flavor, presentation and nutrition of every menu item that came my way.
As it turned out, Beiriso was an ideal setting for a friendly chat. Kind of a Pret/Itsu mash up (and I mean that in the best possible way, really), it was casual, clean, and well lit. Of course, this was Beiriso in soft launch mode. Lots of keenly curious folk were all but pressing their noses to the window to peek in and stepping inside only to be invited back by staff when officially opened to the public. So, even for the hour or so I was there, I could detect loads of interest in this new place to eat or grab a hot beverage that isn’t a Pret or an Itsu or a McDonald’s or a pub or an antiquated caff or a supermarket or a ridiculously expensive upscale restaurant. Now actually open to the public, I can only expect the scene for some time to come at Beiriso to be a more buzzing atmosphere than when I had a bite there.
If you find yourself among the first to flock there, keep in mind Beiriso is running an introductory offer of free coffee with every breakfast item purchased as well as 30% off lunch items after 2pm throughout December and January.
During my visit I got a much better grasp of Beiriso’s more Italian inspired side of the menu than its more Japanese offerings (as those were the only dishes available when I showed up). No complaints … but a good bit of wistful intrigue as I would have loved to have sampled “Med” sushi (aubergine, courgette, and avocado sushi, £3,80 takeaway or £4.62 eat in) or the parma ham nigiri.
Oh well, I’m all for the possibility of a repeat visit as I I very much enjoyed what I tried while there. The minestrone (£2.80 takeaway or £3.36 eat in) proved perfect for a winter day, a nibble or two from the range of savoury calzones (from £2.15), and more than decent pizzas especially pleased my palate as well. A variety of low carb salads (from £3.20), rice bowls (from £4.65), pastries (from £1.50) and more – with plenty of gluten-free, vegan, dairy free items to choose – suggesting wise insight into the food and drink Zone 1 office workers hanker most when dashing to and from work or cramming as much joy as they can into an al-desko lunch break.
Beiriso is located at 2-22 Procter Street, WC1V 6NX. Find out more at beiriso.com.
