After a successful first couple of weeks in their new pop-up home at 16-17 Jermyn Street, we’re here to tell you all the reasons why PAPA L’S KITCHEN is one not to miss!
Chef Lawrence Gomez, who is at the helm of PAPA L’s, cut his teeth, or sharpened his cooking knives (so to speak), at some of the best restaurants in London, and around the world. Gomez started his career at the iconic Ivy on West Street, and went on to work at both Sexy Fish and Scott’s in Mayfair over his 15 year career. He has recently returned from Al Ula, Saudi Arabia, where he was the Executive Chef at Annabel’s. Having cooked for celebrities and royalty alike, he is now returning to his roots and launching PAPA L’S KITCHEN – an African-fusion pop-up on Jermyn Street.
Along with African fusion cuisine, which Chef Lawrence describes as his ‘culture and career on a plate’, the restaurant is a rich celebration of African cultures and diaspora – through art, ambience, music, vibe and energy. Chef Lawrence is dedicated to creating a truly social dining experience and is, therefore, refusing to turn over tables after a set amount of time, so that guests can enjoy each other’s company and the astounding flavours of his dishes, in a relaxed and leisurely manner.
The menu includes a wide variety of delicious dishes, such as PAPA L’s signature grilled king tiger prawns, and Ma’s Benachin rice, a national dish from the Gambia, dedicated to, and passed down from, Gomez’s mother. Other dishes include the dover sole fillet, a favourite of Jermyn Street locals, and the Papa Lova, a take on Pavlova, accompanied by his signature raspberry coulis.
All signature dishes are totally unique, due to top-secret marinades and sauces, and are sure to delight all who take a seat at one of Chef Lawrence’s tables. PAPA L’S KITCHEN is all about celebrating African fusion flavours in a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, and we couldn’t be happier to welcome this fantastic restaurant to Jermyn Street.
Opening hours:
Tuesday – Saturday, 5pm-11.30pm.