The ketogenic diet has garnered some impressive popularity and praise in recent times. In its simplest terms, this represents a high fat eating plan that is focused on shifting the primary energy source for our bodies from glucose to fat. When the carbohydrate intake is dramatically reduced, in comparison to a more typical diet, to around 50 grams or less per day, the body then enters a metabolic state called ketosis. The theory is that through burning fat for energy instead of the sugars of glucose, our bodies are forced to tap into stored reserves in a more efficient manner with greater potential for weight loss, benefits in focus and mental clarity and overall better balance in the control of blood sugar.
Although it may initially appear to be a modern phenomenon, its roots are actually well over a century old, stemming from research into how diet can influence neurological activity. Now ‘keto’ is the basis for Silicon Valley biohackers looking for productivity gains, people looking for weight loss programs and even forms the diet of professional athletes such as LeBron James. A vibrant and connected community of keto bloggers with suggested recipes are also adding lots of traction to this trend online and inevitably, restaurants in forward-thinking hotspots around the world are taking notice.
As you would expect, London restaurants are leading the way with some terrific menu choices to adapt to the keto lifestyle. Here is a collection of the very best to consider, with a guide on how to navigate each one in a keto-friendly way.
SushiSamba
Covent Garden
The view from Opera Terrace above Covent Garden Market provides the perfect starter for any meal. Along the length of the east side here is where you will find SushiSamba, a thrilling fusion of Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary style in the heart of historic central London. The Nourish menu here was created as a collaboration between Executive Chef Andreas Bollos and performance coach Harry Jameson as a response to the increasingly carb-free and keto-conscious tastes of diners in the capital. With the traditional rice and noodles firmly to one side, one can enjoy highlights such as the beetroot cured salmon garnished with chia seeds and pomegranate as an energy boosting option. Using courgette noodles as opposed to wheat with the beef ramen also allows keto diets to be followed without any compromise on taste and texture.
Lima
Fitzrovia
The story of Lima on Rathbone Place in Fitzrovia demonstrates the rise of Peruvian fine dining on a global scale, earning its first Michelin star back in 2013. The sleek, elegant and inviting décor of Lima is the perfect backdrop for a colourful menu that is continually evolving in celebration of the diverse ingredients that Peru has become famous for. The pairing of Head Chef Robert Ortiz and Executive Chef Virgilio Martinez looks as though they have been keen to cater for keto too, with some standout menu options to tailor. The ceviche as a starter with sea bream and avocado can easily be adapted without the sweet potato, for example. Mains of beef in aji Amarillo sauce or perhaps the miso sea bass with pomegranate, served with vegetables instead of the starch-heavy sides, provide a delicately exquisite dish that fits right into the keto dietary guidelines.
Chilango
Soho
For almost 20 years, Chilango has delivered on the promise of Mexican street food with a little London twist in a simple and fuss-free way. The Soho branch on Brewer Street is a masterclass of casual dining with the bursts of colour on the walls and chattering hum of local office workers, tourists and creatives from the famous neighbourhood. This place has always been big on the customisable elements of the menu that offers high-quality and fresh food tailored to individual requirements. The Keto Box is difficult to ignore with a base of fresh leaves, in place of the tortillas, rice and beans, topped with a choice of grilled chicken, steak or pork carnitas. The guacamole is always available for an injection of healthy fats, and a spoonful of fresh salsa will give that little kick that is always essential with Mexican food. Chilango allows you to keep it keto in a hurry, with a little fire added to the mix too.
Flat Iron
Soho
The last decade in central London has seen quite the renaissance of steak-specific restaurants that allow for a great carb-free foundation in meal choices. In many ways, this trend can be traced back to the opening of Flat Iron on Beak Street in Soho, where founder Charlie Carrol built on the success of a summer pop-up to offer this three-floor celebration of the steak. The now familiar exposed brick walls, reclaimed timber tables and austere filament bulbs overhead gave it a curious warmth that guests were quick to love. For the keto devotees, the signature flat iron steak cut from the shoulder blade is the perfect place to start. Obviously, the chips will be strictly off the menu, so the creamed spinach and green beans are a wonderful accompaniment. The vegetarian option of roast aubergine, with tomato, basil and parmesan is a similarly strong choice for a keto-focussed meal without meat at Flat Iron.
Gaucho
Piccadilly
The low-carb lifestyle should not mean that the choices are limited. Gaucho on Piccadilly is a wonderful example of how, with a little planning and help from the staff, you can have all the benefits of great food and drink on an evening out without having to mark it down as a cheat day from dietary discipline. This former Spanish Ambassador’s residence feels as suitably polished as the service, with dramatic décor and lighting to engage its guests. The prime, grass-fed Argentine cuts of ribeye, sirloin and fillet are all prepared over an open flame for authentic flavours and sides of tender stem broccoli, grilled mushrooms and buttered spinach all fall well within keto limits. The Malbecs that make up the lion’s share of the wine list are also a great pairing at Gaucho if your daily programme allows. For seafood alternatives, the roasted monkfish and grilled prawns are always worth consideration too.
The message is clear from these restaurants and many others. London is embracing the keto lifestyle without compromising the quality of dishes and experiences across the city. With more to follow suit, it is always worth discussing your dietary requirements with the front-of-house staff in any London food spot to see how they can be accommodated in the best way possible. It looks as if the keto lifestyle is here to stay in the capital for a lot longer.
