32-34 Monmouth Street,
Seven Dials,
London,
WC2H 9HA
(020) 7240 6076
The ViewLondon Review
Fresh from the hand of the fusion king himself, Kopapa is another impressive new eatery from Peter Gordon, right in the heart of Seven Dials.
The Venue
Looking through the wall-to-ceiling windows out onto the cobbled square and the city trees, Kopapa’s green interior reflects the earthy colours outside. Tulip shaped bulb lamps hang from the ceiling illuminating the matte charcoal tables, brown leather seating, and the white tiled floor. A gleaming bar lines the right wall, displaying vast selections of wines on golden mirrored shelves, and homemade goodies on glass cake stands. Two spindly tables shiver under the green canopy outside for those brave enough to endure the winter chill.
The Atmosphere
A soundtrack of musical theatre jazz is on the playlist, mixed amongst unspecified, relaxing background music. Looking across the Seven Dials to the figures in fishnets on the monochrome Chicago posters, the music choice is clearly well-judged. Catering for pre and post theatre goers, Kopapa’s clientele is a mix of thespians, lunching couples, laptop users and groups of coffee and cake chums. The neatly dressed staff are efficient and chirpy.
The Food
Ranging from breakfasts and small plates through to main courses, the menu brings Peter Gordon's impressive knowledge of fusion cuisine to the table, so expect carefully conceived concoctions such chorizo beignets with salsa verde (£4.50), pork, chilli, coconut and gapi salad on endive with crispy shallots and tamarillo (£6.80) or a duck, Sichuan pepper, feta and Guindilla chilli spring roll with quince and sherry aioli (£5.20). The hot-smoked salmon salad (£8) is an elegant picture of soft pink fish on a bed of rocket leaves, sprinkled daintily with quinoa and palm hearts. The passion fruit dressing is pleasant, but perhaps not as exciting as it might have been. The dessert list is mouthwatering - a selection of wild berries, nuts, chocolates and all things sugary. The sweet-toothed citrus lover will enjoy the boiled-orange almond cake (£5.80), a bona fide tangy delight. Dipped in the accompanying passion fruit custard, taste buds will welcome that extra little bit of zest with glee.
The Drink
Plenty of pots are available for afternoon tea (£2.60) ranging from Earl Grey to lapsang and fruity infusions. The Mulberry tea is a caffeine free green tea from Thailand and is full of anti-oxidants. Coffees and freshly squeezed juices are also on the drinks list, with a classic selection of wines and spirits for the later hours.
The Last Word
A stylish venue, Kopapa is a fresh alternative for feeding the theatre crowd as well as a haven for afternoon cake and cups of tea with friends.
Be the first to review Kopapa...