Ayllu’s New Menu Brings Fine Dining Without the Fuss

Tucked away beside the water in Paddington, Ayllu has always felt like one of London’s better kept secrets. A restaurant you stumble upon once and then can’t quite stop thinking about. Now, the Japanese Peruvian spot is giving Londoners another reason to book a table. Under the guidance of Chef David Reyes, Ayllu has unveiled a new menu that redefines what fine dining can be — not in formality or price, but in flavour and feeling.

The first thing that strikes you is how Ayllu has mastered the art of restraint. The dishes are refined but never fussy, beautifully plated without ever tipping into excess. There is a quiet confidence here, the kind that comes from knowing that great cooking speaks for itself. The shrimp popcorn with yuzu and spicy mayo (£9) is a playful opener, crisp and light with just the right kick. Then there is the duck anticuchero, glazed in a silky salsa that lingers with warmth and depth (£20), and the scallops finished with yuzu sake beurre blanc (£11), a delicate balance of citrus and butter that somehow feels both indulgent and fresh.

Ayllu’s new direction is proof that excellence does not have to come with an eye-watering bill. The flavours are bold, the ingredients premium, and the presentation sharp — yet the prices remain surprisingly accessible. It is the kind of place where you could come for a casual midweek dinner and still feel as if you are celebrating something.

For those looking to savour the full experience, the tasting menus are where Ayllu’s philosophy shines. Starting from £39 per person, diners can choose from Cuzco, Machu Picchu, or Vegetarian journeys, each one a curated path through Nikkei cuisine — the fusion of Japanese precision with Peruvian vibrancy. Expect dishes that dance between continents: Bluefin tuna rolls, Peruvian beef barbecue, salmon cazuela. Each course arrives with purpose, carrying the story of two culinary worlds in harmony.

What truly sets Ayllu apart, however, is its atmosphere. The dining room hums with quiet energy, a mix of polished design and genuine warmth. It is stylish but not intimidating, refined but comfortable — the kind of space where conversation flows easily over a perfectly poured cocktail or a second plate of ceviche.

As General Manager Alfredo Cirnigliaro puts it, “Our new menu keeps Ayllu’s core values intact — quality, freshness and inclusivity. It’s fine dining that feels relaxed, social and stylish.”

In a city where restaurants often compete to outdo each other with extravagance, Ayllu takes a more grounded approach. It offers something rare: fine dining that feels personal, honest and within reach. For Londoners who crave craftsmanship without the formality, Ayllu is the quiet triumph hiding in plain sight.