Recently returned to winter in London from a summery ten-day safari in Namibia, I’ve been craving fiercely the Southern African sun and striving to hang on to the feeling of fascination from such an amazing trip. Grabbing a quick lunch in Soho may sound like a far cry from discovering the wild wonders of the vast and arid Namibian bush (and it is). Nevertheless, the chance to try out South African inspired and owned Bunnychow’s new “‘Better Breads spectrum of healthy loaves” helped at least to enjoy the flavours of that sunny land and keep my memories at the fore of my thoughts a little longer.
Bunny who? In case you’ve yet to get hip to this SA street food phenom, Bunnychow (the place, one word) serves bunny chow (traditional street food from Durban, two words). A “bunny” is a freshly baked bun hollowed out and “crammed” with hot fillings and topped with a bread lid (which serves as an excellent sopper-upper once you’re close to the bottom of your bunny).
The Wardour Street eatery’s new selection of Better Breads features gluten-free bread, charcoal brioche, protein wholemeal and matcha green tea white bread.
During my drop by, I feasted on a classic chakalaka (pulled chicken marinated with ginger, garlic, chilli and lemon, and served with peri peri sauce, £6) stuffed a charcoal brioche. It was yummy and filling and the folks at Bunnychow reckon the charcoal can help to “absorb harmful toxins, cleanse the digestive system and boost the immune system.” Sweet, smoky and earthy, I thought it paired well with the filling and suggested a decidedly African blend of flavours.
Augmented by a side of tangy pork ribs (£3) and a North Beach juice (coconut water and cream, elderflower, lemon and lime juice, £3) I was set for the day and glad, in some small way, to relive a bit of my African adventure.
Bunnychow is located at 74 Wardour Street, W1F 0TE. Find out more at bunnychow.com.
