Walking into the mammoth five-mile round new Westfield, I had high expectations as I entered the shopping centre. Anything within such a structure had to inspire.
Rhythm Kitchen is nicely positioned within the hustle and bustle of the food court within Stratford City Westfield. The atmosphere within the Food Court at Westfield has a ‘street’ feel like you’re walking through a food market with its open plan and open kitchens. Walking through, an infusion of continental aromas whiz through your nostrils.
The Caribbean restaurant was brought to Stratford by ‘The Jerkfather’ Delroy Dixon, who grew up within a stone’s throw from Westfield. Rhythm Kitchen is bright and attractive; the colours of yellow and orange create a vibrant setting which is inviting to diners.
Just like the colours I was served with a warm reception by the waitress who took our order. The menu was nicely laid out, simple and concise – not filled out like a book like some. There’s something for everyone ribs, curries, stews and salads. The prices are very reasonable compared to other Caribbean eateries in London.
My friend and I ordered, upon recommendation, a quarter jerk chicken, lamb curry, fried plantain, mango salsa and jerk chips for our lunch and it came to below £20 – impressive for London dining.
Jerk Chicken
Some people maybe familiar with a buzzer service, but I wasn’t until this day. Once my order was placed I was given a remote buzzer, which I was told would vibrate when my food was ready. The benefit of the open kitchen is, not only can diners see the work ethic and effort going into one’s food, you can’t help but be fascinated by the flames and grills of chicken. I was impressed that I could see that my food was being cooked fresh, not like other restaurants I’ve been to where the food is reheated and not piping hot and fresh like it should be. It’s one part of my paranoia wandering how my food is being prepared. No alarm needed here.
The portion of the chicken was large, the seasoning smelt lovely and it was grilled just right: soft and succulent. The flavour gave it a homemade jerk taste. The jerk sauce was extra hot just like I like it. The rice and peas and chips were served in separate bowls – convenient for two sharing. Given that I eat rice daily, I couldn’t pick a fault with the way it tasted. The salsa varied my taste buds by offering something sweet on the side. The lamb curry was cooked well and not too hard so it was nicely chewy. In fact, it tasted not too dissimilar from the Asian lamb curries I’m accustomed to.
While I was at the Rhythm Kitchen I saw people of all backgrounds enjoying the ‘Caribbean Soul Food’ that was on offer with a continuous flow of diners. The service was good, the food was lovely and the atmosphere had a rhythm to it too. I know I will be back.
For more information go to www.rhythmkitchen.co
by Pavel Choudhury
