Lupins Review
We had such a lovely evening at Lupins, a cosy, super relaxed and welcoming bar and restaurant . The concept here is all about seasonal small plates that change regularly. We visited during their limited-edition summer menu, which is a total celebration of bold, fresh British produce.
The setup is casual and inviting, with bar seating downstairs and tables upstairs. Since it was a warm summer evening when we visited, there were tables outside but we sat upstairs next to the open window. The staff were absolutely brilliant—friendly, attentive, and really knowledgeable about the food and wine.
The recommendation is to order 2 snacks and 4 small plates to share between two people, which felt just right. There were plenty of tempting options—around eight small plates and six snacks—so choosing wasn’t easy, but everything we tried was absolutely delicious. The plates come out as and when they are ready, which allowed us to really enjoy each dish.
We kicked things off with the Montgomery cheddar fritters, which honestly just melted in our mouths. These are a must if you go. We also tried the Mangalitza ham with guindillas and crisps—super simple but punchy, with a great balance of salt, zing, and crunch.
From the small plates, we had the grilled squid with barratiere cucumber, red onion and coriander. The squid was perfectly cooked—tender and not at all chewy—and the cucumber and onion added a slightly tangy contrast. We also had a beautifully cooked roasted leg of lamb with chickpeas, olives and a garlicky mayo. The lamb was tender and succulent with a slight crisp edge, and the mayo added just the right touch of richness. It was one of those dishes you didn’t want to end. Then came the seabass with peas, broad beans, lovage and fregola. The skin was deliciously crisp, the fish flaky and soft, and the whole plate just felt like summer on a dish—fresh, green, and full of flavour.
To finish, we shared the amaretto caramelised peaches with whipped mascarpone, and it was such a treat. Warm, soft peaches, that sweet nuttiness from the amaretto, and the mascarpone made it feel both indulgent and light—just the way you want to end a meal.
We also really enjoyed the wine—El Padrós Tarragona from Spain. It had this lovely sweet citrus brightness that paired so well with the food.
Tucked just behind Borough Market Lupins is a gem. It’s unfussy, full of charm, and clearly focused on letting great seasonal ingredients shine. They’re open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Saturday, and dinner only on Tuesdays.
Address: 66 Union Street, SE1 1TD
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lupinslondon
Website: https://www.lupinslondon.com
Written by Caitlin Neal
