Newington Green has a new dining establishment; Perilla opening its doors last month. The restaurant, owned by Ben Marks (whose accolades include stints at Claridge’s and Noma) and Matt Emmerson (who’s done time in the kitchens of both POLPO and Polpetto), will offer a selection of seasonal dishes with a modern interpretation on classic European ingredients.
Located on the corner of Newington Green and Green Lanes, Matt explains the thought process behind the Perilla concept: ‘to bring our twist on fine dining out of expensive, traditional restaurants and make it accessible, affordable, and informal’. You won’t find many to argue with that philosophy.
With an à la carte menu and five course set menu to choose from, diners can expect things like fried duck egg with chopped mussels and parsley, and cuttlefish bolognese and seaweed bread brushed with roasted lamb fat; all complimented by a concise wine list and a heavily gin-focussed cocktail list.
Working with Red Deer Architects on the interiors, the relaxed — dare we say it: hygge-esque — space features large wrap-around windows, and handcrafted raw materials for a clean, modern feel and vintage furniture. Original yellow black terrazzo tiles uncovered during the build make up the flooring; whilst you’ll be eating your dinner off upcycled wooden barn doors. Cosy.
