Run by three brothers – the Greek street food pioneers behind the much-missed Hungry Donkey in Spitalfields – and named after their favourite beach on the island of Andros in the Cyclades, VORI is a modern taverna that celebrates all that is special about Greek food, wine and hospitality. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.
Although it only opened a year ago, Vori has quickly become a firm favourite with Holland Park locals and visitors alike. They flock here throughout the day to enjoy lovingly prepared and authentic rustic dishes, many cooked over charcoal and all created using seasonal Greek and local ingredients of the highest provenance, against a backdrop of terracotta walls and gleaming, slate-grey tables. Not content to rest on their laurels, Markos Tsimikalis and his siblings are marking Vori’s first birthday with a launch of an exciting new menu.
The Greek table is all about sharing dishes, connecting with friends and family and recounting stories, all of which are at the heart of Vori. Thus the Faros lunch and dinner menus continue in the same fashion as before, with dishes coming out in waves as and when they are ready.
Diners will still be able to enjoy signature fare such as Kolokithokeftedes (deep-fried courgette fritters, feta & Greek yoghurt) and Manitaria (seasonal grilled mushrooms, petimezi & pine nuts). These established favourites will now be offered alongside new dishes, many of which will change weekly, according to the season. Grilled fish and meat is offered as specials, dependent on what Vori’s trusted local suppliers have sourced for them that day.
Generous rustic roasts for the table to share such as kid goat (Katsikaki) is complemented by new nibbles like Htapodi (octopus carpaccio) and small and medium plates including Keftedakia (Greek meatballs), Matsata Thalassinon (home-made Cycladic pasta, seasonal seafood & bottarga) and deep-fried Mastello cheese with chilli thyme honey.
In addition, Vori has added new dishes to its ever-popular breakfast offering, from Brizolaki (grilled onglet steak, hand-cut chips & fried egg) through to Avgofeta (egg sourdough, tomato & Graviera cheese).
Vori – now with the strapline Greek Plates & Wine – will of course continue to champion indigenous Greek wines, as well as a range of unpasteurised beer from award-winning Greek microbreweries. The festivities don’t end there however. On 5 May – Greek Orthodox Easter Sunday-Vori will be serving a special set menu.
The most important date in the Greek calendar, Orthodox Easter is characterised by traditions and customs that date back centuries. Vori will be honouring these with staples such as slow-roasted joints of lamb and kid-goat, Mageiritsa (a thick soup made with lamb offal, onion & rice), Tsoureki (sweet bread) and, of course, the customary dyed eggs for smashing, all of which are served in homes and restaurants throughout Greece on this day.
Vori offers a meal experience that’s relaxing and indulgent, with service that is impeccable, in chic surroundings and upscale vibe, with delish dishes which look and taste exquisite, all in all Vori is a remarkable restaurant and it’s a must visit in London for the best of Greek cuisine. Highly Recommended!
Vori is open from Tuesday through Sunday for breakfast, lunch and dinner.