Under the guidance of Culinary Director Sanjay Dwivedi, upscale Latin American restaurant Coya has added a range of new plant-based dishes to its menu.
Already a fan of Dwivedi’s doings – vegan and otherwise – as well of the original Coya restaurant in Mayfair, I was pleased to make it round finally to the sister location, Coya Angel Court near Bank Station, for a tasting of the new vegan dishes.
Alongside old favourites such as the irresistible Trio de Maiz (Josper corn, crispy corn, white corn, and sweet onions, £9) and one of London’s most delectable guacamoles (£8), the updated range offers sophisticated flavours crafted with health conscious appetites in mind.
Among the recently launched veggie dishes that amazed my palate most were the anticucho de tofu (skewers of grilled tofu with spring onion, peppers, and crispy quinoa, £8) and the papa seca con setas y trufa (Peruvian potatoes, wild mushrooms and truffles, £23). Both were total hits at the table where I dined and would wow any palate even that of the most ardent carnivore.
Vegan fixings are available across the menu. A rice and quinoa pudding with mango sorbet (£9) was an especially moreish way to conclude my feast. Even the classic Pisco Sour (£12) got the plant-based treatment with aquafaba used rather than typical egg whites. Of course, if you want egg whites with your Pisco Sour, that’s certainly still on the menu. Keep in mind that dishes at Coya change with the seasons but the kitchen remains committed to providing a number of plant-based menu items next to meat, fish and dairy dishes throughout the year.
As for my chance to check out the Angel Court digs, I was impressed with the buzzing atmosphere – particularly for a midweek lunch in early January. Despite the throngs, service was cordial and swift.
Coya Angel Court is located at 31-33 Throgmorton Street, EC2N 2AT. The Coya flagship restaurant is on the Piccadilly. There is a small number of international outlets as well. Find out more at coyarestaurant.com.
