69-71 Goodmayes Road,
Ilford,
Essex,
IG3 9UB
(020) 8590 6064
The ViewLondon Review
Tucked away in Ilford, Kuku’s Nest stands out above its neighbouring neighbourhood pubs and takeaway joints. Expect the unexpected and be satisfied with fantastic service, great food, and an eye catching décor.
The Venue
The design at Kuku’s Nest is as eclectic as the menu. Walls are deep burgundy and decorated with simple black-framed mirrors, while the ceiling is white with a funky wave-like design that's illuminated by neon lights. Black tables and chairs are paired with comfy black leather cushioned seats that line the walls but it’s the floor that's the first thing to grab your attention; a large part of it is comprised of glass displaying about forty brightly coloured Koi, gracefully swimming around. Flashing neon lights and even two fully set tables are all beneath as you dine in awe.
The Atmosphere
The vibe in the downstairs dining area which seats about forty people is relaxed yet exciting at the same time. The staff are ultra professional and polished. After your meal, you can head up stairs to the stylish bar/lounge area for a relaxing after dinner drink, or to dance the night away.
The Food
The bread board (£2.25) is a generous portion of mixed warm breads served on a slate with balsamic vinegar and olive oil and spicy olives. The Kuku’s veggie slate (£7.50) is a great option for any vegetarians out there: it's packed with onion bhajis and vegetable pakoras that are fresh, light, and full of fresh vegetables and spices. Served with various dips including coriander chutney, this dish is enough for two people to share.
The mixed grilled slate (£9.50) is a generous helping of various meat and fish including tiger prawns, chicken tikka, grilled monkfish, and seekh kebab. Though there are lots of things going on here, all the different textures and flavours blend well together. Basil roasted tomato and red pepper tagliatelle (£8.95) is fresh, home made flat ribbon pasta tossed with tomato and spicy red pepper sauce served in a delicious basket baked of fried parmesan cheese. The pasta is perfectly cooked al dente, but the sauce seems to have too much pepper flavour. The presentation is amazing though. The rib eye steak (£15.95) comes cooked to your liking and is juicy, tender and served with hand cut chunky chips, grilled tomato, mushrooms and either peppercorn sauce or a red wine jus.
The bad boy (£4.95) is a decadent dark chocolate tart topped with chocolate ganache, served warm and topped with raspberry foam. The crunchy chocolate crust complements the soft, melt-in-your-mouth centre fantastically. Cappuccino crème brulee (£4.95) comes served with mini short breads covered with gooey caramel, and is topped with a delicious burnt sugar layer. This dessert is tasty but is more like a flan than a crème brulee in look and texture. The cappuccino flavour could be stronger too.
The Drink
Wines include red, white, and rose and house red is a fantastic merlot from Chile for £8.50. You can also choose from various beers, spirits, and mixed drinks.
The Last Word
Whether you have a craving for Italian, Indian or British cuisine, they'll be cured by a visit to Kuku’s Nest. And the sleek, modern, and innovative design certainly makes this a place to remember.
Kukus Nest has been reviewed by 17 users