Ergon is a newly opened Greek deli and restaurant in Marylebone. Its menu features dishes designed by Dimitris Skarmoutsos, Greece’s best know celebrity chef. The shop sells products only from independent Greek producers. And, in the face of the the gargantuan econonomic meltdown, this startup business managed to expand across Greece and actually make a profit.
Now with its Picton Place shop launched just before the new year, Ergon aims to bring an authentic taste of Greece to London. The reasons to visit are many. But if you need just one reason go, make it a take home jar of Ergon’s cod roe spread. That stuff is flippin’ gorgeous.
Back in mid December, I got to sit in on a tasting session at Ergon and to take home a few goodies from the deli shelves. I really enjoyed everything I tried at this instant go-to favourite for comfort food in a convenient location. Dishes I especially loved included Gruyere from Naxos (rolled in carob flour, oat flakes, poppy seeds and served with rose petals in syrup, £7); “Staka” cream from Chania with poached eggs (£6); 12 hour slow cooked lemon lamb joint with marjoram (£18); and heartily satisfying mousaka (£14). Prices for portions and preparations were reasonable, and I think most people would be happy to got there for a snack or complete meal.
As for the deli selection, wow. A smartly curated range of products like the smoky smooth cod roe spread (which I found utterly gorgeous and must buy another jar of soon), plenty of cured meats, Greek craft beers (I loved sipping a Volkan from Santorini), honeys and oils (insert mega etc) – all made in Greece by indie producers – are just the sort of treats worth shopping for.
And speaking of shopping, the big winter sales are still on, right? If retail therapy’s your thing and you plan on scavenging the aisles of Selfridges, drop by Ergon for a tasty break. The minimalist and inviting resto-deli is essentially located right round the corner from the department store. Sales or not, ‘just behind’ Selfridges is a handy location for all sorts of central London excursions.
Ergon is located at 16 Picton Place, W1U 1BP. Find out more at ergonproducts.gr.
