We head to the latest addition to west London’s food scene for a boozy brunch of champions. Read on for our Maple food review…
Words Helen Brown
Adding to west London’s admirable brunch offering, Maple is the botanical-themed eatery with interiors of Instagram gold-standard and food to match. Situated in the ever-expanding Westfield and the brainchild of The Botanist team, this all-day dining venue has every potential to be one hell of a west London hotspot.
We kick things off with a couple of Bloody Mary’s which – having traversed the capital from Bow by way of a hot and stuffy 50-minute stint on the Central line – go down exceptionally well. Deeming it acceptable to order three-courses for an 11am brunch, we begin with avocado and chilli on sourdough toast (yes, we are Millennials) and sweet corn and chilli fritters. The fritters, accompanied by grilled tomato and a coconut and mint dressing, are warm and pillowy with just a hint of chill. Comfort food at its finest.
Next, it’s on to a salad of smoked tofu with puffed wild rice, kimchi, coriander and coconut yoghurt. Adorned with edible petals, it’s a real feast for the eyes and tastes fantastic too. The smokiness sits on the palette as a delicate background note while the kimchi delivers something punchier. The thing that stands out most about this dish though are the textures; the wild rice has a satisfying crunch and chew while the tofu is meltingly soft. The whole thing comes together with a tangy dressing. The roast butternut squash salad comprises Fregula, couscous, kale, frisée and a punchy herb dressing. It’s light, elegant and a real celebration of squash.
Feeling too stuffed for the afore-planned dessert, we opt instead for a couple of Espresso Martinis. Elegant and flaunting the all-important crema, they certainly showcase the skills of Maple’s mixologists. This restaurant is no one-trick-pony. Brilliant for both brunch and cocktails, and with an enticing àl a carte offering as well, say hello to west London’s latest hotspot.
