Last Updated on August 18, 2024 by Goya
Dreaming of the perfect spot for your Veganuary fix? Look no further than Mallow London!
If you’re on the hunt for a top-notch plant-based dining experience this Veganuary, Mallow should be at the top of your list.
The latest venture from the acclaimed team behind Mildreds, this is a place that ticks all the boxes: a great blend of creative 100% plant-based food, a beautiful atmosphere, a great location and warm, attentive service with a lively bar to match (even on a weekday!).
What more would you need for a great night out?
When this post was first published in 2022, Mallow was based solely in Borough Market — which was good for those looking for vegan and vegetarian restaurants near London Bridge but not so much for others. Luckily, since 2023, they’ve expanded their plant-based magic to a brand-new location in Canary Wharf, making their mouth-watering creations accessible to even more food lovers.
We went to Mallow with lovely Nina from Little Joys by Nina Karo for a little catch-up/girls’ night.
We ordered 4 small plates to share, plus one main and one dessert each, with copious amounts of cocktails (which, fair to say, we both deeply regretted the next day), because everything sounded just so sooo delicious!
In hindsight, we could — and probably should — have ordered less… yet, we have no regrets when it comes to food as they were all magnificent! As was the ambience.
Speaking of…
Ambience and Atmosphere
The décor at Mallow strikes a perfect balance — playful yet elegant — making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions. The atmosphere is inviting with warm tones, bursts of colour, and beautiful high ceilings.
The open dining area (and the close proximity of the tables) creates a warm social ambience, but there are also cosy corners for more private hangouts.
The friendly and attentive staff enhance this welcoming vibe with their approachable and knowledgeable service, making you feel right at home.
Menu at Mallow Restaurant
Mallow’s menu is a celebration of 100% plant-based cuisine that’s both creative and satisfying (and sustainable too!). With an impressive array of dishes, the menu caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Starting with the small plates, we were immediately impressed by the creativity and depth of flavours.
Small Plates, a.k.a. The Showstoppers
- Son Dumplings with Kimchi & Gochujang Dip: These dumplings were our top choice of the night. The combination of kimchi and gochujang dip provided a spicy kick that perfectly complemented the savoury dumplings.
- Porcini Truffle Croquettes: A close second in terms of favourites. The truffle flavour was beautifully balanced, offering a rich and earthy profile that paired beautifully with the accompanying leeks and aioli.
- Skordalia with Celeriac Skewer & Jerusalem Artichoke: This dish was a triumph of texture and flavour, featuring a velvety skordalia paired with perfectly grilled celeriac and artichoke.
We also tried the almond feta with bitter leaves and blackberry vinegar. While this dish was fresh and innovative, it was slightly overshadowed by the stronger flavours of the other small plates:
Mains: A Hearty Finish
For our main courses, we opted for dishes that seemed particularly enticing.
The Pasilla Padron Oyster Mushroom Tacos, served with citrus habanero slaw, sour cream, and pink onions, looked and tasted amazing but were not the dish I enjoyed the most.
Perhaps, I am saying that because the tacos were a little too spicy for my taste.. which may not be a fair review, considering I was also drinking a Hot & Smoky Cocktail (with mezcal, ancho reyes verde, green tea, lime, mint) at the time!
The White Miso Dashi with Rice Noodles, chard, mushroom sesame tempeh, and daikon, was a more subtle and soothing option. The umami-rich dashi paired well with the rice noodles and vegetables, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.
Both mains were excellent in their own right, though the small plates had set such a high bar that they didn’t quite achieve the same level of excitement.
Desserts: Sweet Endings
As we reached the dessert stage, we were already feeling the effects of our indulgence (by that, I mean total food coma!), but we pressed on because Mallow’s dessert offerings looked too tempting to pass up!
The Chocolate Hazelnut Financier was a decadent treat, with a rich, nutty flavour and a smooth white chocolate mousse that added a luxurious touch.
The Crème Brûlée had a perfectly crispy caramelized top and creamy custard, made even better with the sweet touch of Morello cherry and a crunchy coconut tuille, adding a fun mix of textures and flavours.
Cocktails and Beverages
And as I said, we had all of this food with a side of burnt butter old fashioned (perfection!), blackberry & rosemary margarita (also amazing!), hot & smoky and the desserts with some sweet wine.
They also have an extensive wine list or a mocktail list, if these don’t appeal to you.
FAQs | Mallow London
Does Mallow Have Outdoor Seating?
Yes, but only in their Canary Wharf branch. Their Borough Market branch doesn’t have an outdoor seating area.
Is Mallow Dog-Friendly?
Yes, Mallow is dog-friendly! They welcome well-behaved dogs at all of their restaurants. Your furry friend can enjoy a water bowl and plant-based dog biscuits. Just remember to keep your pet under your chair, and no outside treats, please. If your dog gets too excited, you may be asked to step outside for a moment.
Is Mallow Wheelchair Accessible?
Mallow’s Canary Wharf location is fully wheelchair accessible. While the Borough Market location has accessible tables and bathrooms on the ground floor, the restaurant itself has 6 steps at the entrance and no ramp.
Does Mallow London Have a Dress Code?
Mallow London does not have a strict dress code. You’re welcome to dress in whatever makes you feel comfortable, whether you’re coming from work, exploring the market, or enjoying a night out. Casual and smart-casual attire are both perfectly fine.
Final Thoughts on Mallow Restaurant
By the end of our meal at Mallow, Nina and I were already planning our next visit, and I’m sure you will too.
Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just curious about plant-based eats, Mallow delivers a fantastic vegan dining experience in London that’s both delicious and unforgettable. If you decide to visit them, you can find their details below and let me know your thoughts in the comments!
Until then, happy Veganuary all!
xx
MALLOW LONDON ADDRESS
MALLOW BOROUGH MARKET
Address: Cathedral St, London SE1 9DE
Opening Hours: Open every day from 9 AM – 11 PM
Phone: 020 7846 8785
MALLOW CANARY WHARF
Address: 12 Park Dr, London E14 9ZW
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 11 PM from Monday to Saturday, 9 AM – 10 PM on Sundays
Phone: 0208 0508 704
Menu: mallowlondon.com
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