When it was first announced that international superstar restaurateur Arkady Novikov was opening in London, there was a flutter of anticipation and excitement that the capital was going to get an injection of bling.

The Russian entrepreneur has restaurants all over the world, and his website boasts Naomi Campbell and Bill Clinton as regular guests. Novikov London, on Berkeley Street in Mayfair, contains two distinct eateries in one site – an Italian and an Asian restaurant – and an additional lounge bar.

Dining at the Novikov London’s Asian restaurant, we arrived on Sunday evening to impeccable service with the right mix of friendly and informative staff.

The restaurant was a gorgeous space, with refined design and perfect ambiance, and diners were the traditional sleek Berkeley Square set. So, not the ‘bling’ I’d perhaps imagined, but in fact far more enjoyable.

The menu at Novikov London is a mix of Chinese and Asian dishes, and guests are advised to order a mixture from a vast selection. We started with Xiao Long Bao with Pork and Crab, and Chilli Rock Shrimp; two dishes which instantly conjured ‘oohs and ahhs’ from our table.

The crispy duck salad with green apple and pomegranate was one of the tastiest salads I’ve ever had, and worth a trip back alone. The acidity of the fruit against the richness of the duck, and the cool, crisp greens against the warm meat was utterly delicious.

Salmon sashimi was a generous helping of firm and beautifully cut fish, the freshness of which was impressive, but it was the main course which was the highlight. The waiting team left the perfect amount of time in between courses to ensure that the arrival of ‘Chilli Ginger Garlic Spicy Beef Fillet’ was met with the right amount of lip licking and excitement.

The dish arrived prettily presented, which is quite a feat for a fillet of beef, but this is no ordinary fillet of beef. Moist, flavoursome, and rested so it was soft and oozing tasty juices, but with a sweet and caramelised seared edge for contrast.

Staff at Novikov London elevated the experience further, and both the floor team and Sommelier were a great addition to the experience, guiding, educating and attentive at every stage.

Quite simply Novikov London is an excellent addition to the restaurant scene in London, particularly in Mayfair, and I wholeheartedly recommend it for groups, celebrations, client entertaining and intimate dinners in equal measure.

Address: Novikov London, 50a Berkeley Street Mayfair, W1J 8HA

Phone: +44 207 399 4330

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