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Any place that describes itself as ‘London’s first [insert niche USP here]’, is usually more style than substance. But the gimmick at The Wesley is one we can get behind. It claims to be London’s first sustainable hotel, and this ethos is carried through to its restaurant. The Savannah uses ethically sourced ingredients from sustainable suppliers. This green approach doesn’t stop at the food – most of the furniture is made from recycled materials and there’s even eco-friendly artwork, including a bird made from old shopping trolleys.
Thankfully, there’s nothing recycled about the menu. A starter of crispy tempura prawns rested on a banana leaf with a delicately spiced tomato sauce by its side, while the rack of lamb was well cooked and paired with crispy bacon and creamy polenta. The standout dish was a starter of African-spiced melt-in-the-mouth pork belly, served with a meaty scallop and a carrot and miso purée.
It’s just a shame there wasn’t more of it. Portions are a bit on the measly side, which is only emphasised by vast white plates. So while the ethically sourced food might not cost the earth (in more ways than one), you might still leave The Savannah feeling a bit short-changed.