Review on Zela London
Zela London is located on the ground floor of the ME London hotel, taking over the space that formerly occupied the Italian restaurant Cucina Asellina. Owned by Mabel Hospitality whose investors include the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Nadal, Enrique Iglesias and Pau Gasol, they have already established Zela in Ibiza, which was launched in May 2017 in the prestigious Marina Botafoch neighbourhood.
Taken its name from a butterfly native to Indochina, the restaurant's vibrant interiors have been created by Diego Gronda studio. Filled with lush foliage giving a tropical forest effect, rich banquette and bamboo furniture are laid out on a mix of Spanish tiled and wood flooring, while the lattice ceiling is made of layers of bronze, mirrors and textured glass sheets. High stools are set at the sushi counter overlooking the kitchen, as well as at the bar, both of which are covered with hand-lacquered ceramic tiles representing small feathers. In the evenings the lights are dimmed and there's a DJ playing music.
Taking helm of the kitchen is acclaimed Spanish chef Ricardo Sanz, who seamlessly blends Japanese cooking techniques with Mediterranean ingredients, naming this style of cuisine as 'meppon'. Apart from a selection of sushi, sashimi, tempura and tataki, there's much to enjoy including Wagyu Ribeye with soy garlic butter and miso black cod. When it comes to desserts there's a cheesecake ice cream or maybe maki with Nutella and strawberry.
The wine list majors in Spanish offerings and there's plenty of options available by the glass, alongside premium sakes and cocktails blending Asian and Mediterranean ingredients.
Cuisine
Mediterranean / Japanese
Chef
Ricardo Sanz
Restaurant Opening Times
Breakfast: 12.00 - 10.00pm Sun Brunch
Lunch: 12.00 - 3.00pm
Dinner: 5.00pm - 12.00am Mon-Thu (5.00 - 1.00am Fri & Sat)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express