The gloomy winter blues in London pushed me to seek the welcoming hustle-and-bustle place whilst my hometown friend visited me here. Searching for somewhere more than an ordinary pub for such catching up, I intended for a place with authentic European food and cosy environment. This is how the “Spirit of Sunny Portugal” caught my eye. Casa do Frango, inspired by traditional Portuguese cuisine, honours the original Algarvian recipes. Its famous piri-piri chicken, even as a large sharing plate, the cost of £14.50 is just as friendly for students like me. With multiple outlets in central London, I confirmed my booking at London Bridge, just two stations away from LCC.
The second me and my friends took our seats, we knew we were at the right place. The tiring full working-day schedule has worn me out, but was instantly left behind by the subtle orangey lighting that took a soft glow on the long dining tables. The welcoming in-house staff has made the dining environment just as if we were hosted by a local Portuguese family with their easy-going traits. Not only was the food inspiring but also the drinks. Casa do Frango also has a rich drinking menu that suits multiple flavours: from the classic sangria to a fresh rhubarb spritz, even with another full page of wines that explains its popularity as a “catching-up” place.
The small sharing plates are just ideal for dining with friends and families that allow a taste of a bit of everything. My first try of a Portuguese rice dish, casa rice, amazed me by its unique and rich flavours with chorizo and plantain. The dishes are also available for vegans and there are gluten-free options. All in all, it is just so ideal that I introduced it to almost every friend visiting as a tourist ever since. If you are looking for somewhere different and delicate; or craving some authentic Portuguese cuisine, try Casa do Frango!
Nikki Oudi Gu
Address: 32 Southwark St, London SE1 1TU