There are few restaurants in the capital with quite such a gripping origin story as 2210.
Owner and head chef Nathaniel Mortley, aka NattyCanCook, began his culinary career aged 16, working in kitchens including Mayfair’s The Arts Club before he found himself making decisions that would lead to a stint in HMP Brixton. Determined to continue cooking, he became sous chef at the prison’s in-house restaurant The Clink, and on his release built up an impressive social media following thanks to his creative spins on Caribbean staples.
Cut to late 2025, and the south Londoner has opened the doors to his very first restaurant.
You’re coming here for Natty’s inventive plays on Caribbean signatures
2210 is a vibe from the moment you walk in. There’s a slightly rowdy playlist that will have you questioning whether you’re in a club or restaurant. The sound of Jeremih’s ‘Birthday Sex’ blasting was not on my bingo card, but was well received by this self-proclaimed lover girl. The place is packed and buzzing. The open space and booming RnB, hip hop and Afrobeats create an atmosphere where being loud is the norm – great for date nights or big group dinners.
We start with a rum and sorrel sour as well as a hibiscus fizz. Deep red in colour, they capture the essence of vibrant cocktails enjoyed on Caribbean beaches, and the sweet and sour notes hit particularly well.
Really though, you’re coming here for Natty’s inventive plays on Caribbean signatures. The ackee and saltfish spring rolls stood out thanks to their crunchy exterior, and a sweet red pepper velouté and spring onion emulsion. And if it’s a toss up between the confit pork belly and the lamb belly skewer, you won’t make a bad decision either way. For duos who like to share, you’ll end up fighting over the wiri wiri lamb rump. It arrives proudly and Instagram-worthy, with an abundance of colour, texture and height that’ll guarantee a barrage of loveheart story replies. It tastes as good as it looks, well balanced with a light and smoky baba ganoush, sharp pickled onions, mint oil and tamarind jus. Of course, there is jerk chicken on the menu, but it’ll be the lamb that creates the most extreme food envy.
2210 is also a perfect place for the age-old jollof vs rice ‘n’ peas debate to be properly hashed out. The jollof won for me, thanks for asking.
Both desserts are faultless but if you only have room for one, let it be the deep fried apple crumble. It’s one of those sweet treats that has everything: crunch, sweetness and… caffeine, thanks to the surprisingly well-paired coffee cream.
Between the sing-along soundtrack, a relaxed take on fine dining, and soulful Caribbean vibes, Natty has created a genre of restaurant dining that’s fun, inviting and reflective of who he is.
The vibe A super-lively atmosphere that’s matched perfectly with an exciting menu.
The food Elevated pan-Caribbean cuisine meets classic French techniques.
The drink While the wine list ensures zero disappointment, the cocktails are the thing here. The scotch bonnet margarita and rum punch particularly stand out.
Time Out tip Natty’s Sunday lunch is a firm favourite, offering a Caribbean twist on the classic roast dinner, and prices start from £25.