Food

Introducing Taverna Ermou

Tucked into the ever-bustling charm of St Christopher’s Place, Taverna Ermou arrives as a welcome slice of Athens in the West End – one that feels particularly well placed for those working nearby (including me ha!). Having opened its London outpost in March 2026 under the ERGON umbrella, the restaurant brings with it a strong sense of authenticity, and on a recent visit, that promise translated beautifully onto the plate.

We started with a pair of classic Greek dips: taramosalata and tyrokafteri, both served with warm, pillowy pitta. The taramosalata was silky and well-balanced, with just the right hint of seafood, while the tyrokafteri delivered a satisfying kick without overwhelming the palate. Simple dishes, done very well.

The Greek salad was a standout and arguably the best I’ve had outside of Greece. Generous chunks of feta, ripe tomatoes, and a perfectly judged dressing made it feel both authentic and deeply satisfying. It’s on the pricier side at £16.00, but was definitely one of the freshest I had tried.

From the small plates, the keftedes were another highlight, juicy beef and pork meatballs paired with cooling Greek yoghurt and crisp, hand-cut chips. The charred octopus, served with a smooth fava purée, leaned more towards the restaurant’s “fish soul” philosophy. Tender with a subtle smokiness, it was thoughtfully executed and full of flavour.

Dessert brought a pleasant surprise. The Greek yoghurt cream with nuts, honeycomb, and traditional spoon sweet offered something a little different, less overtly indulgent than many dessert menus, but interesting, textured, and true to its roots. Nice and light, and just want you want after lots of pitta.

Beyond the food, the atmosphere deserves mention. Designed as a kind of neighbourhood “living room,” the space manages to feel both stylish and relaxed. There’s a warmth to the materials and layout that encourages you to linger, whether over a long lunch or an unhurried evening meal.

Cocktails add a creative flourish to the experience. One particularly intriguing option, a Greek salad-inspired cocktail, captured the restaurant’s playful side. Fresh, savoury, and unexpectedly cohesive, it’s emblematic of the kitchen’s willingness to experiment while staying grounded in tradition.

Taverna Ermou isn’t trying to reinvent Greek cuisine; instead, it honours it. With its combination of thoughtful cooking, inviting atmosphere, and prime location, it succeeds in bringing a genuine taste of Athens to London. I saw it first via James Dimitri, and very glad I tested it out myself too.

Find out more > www.ergonfoods.com/tavernaermou-london