[title]
A stone’s throw from New Fetter Lane, this newish addition to the Nusa chain has big windows facing a courtyard and generous seating upstairs. On my visit, the queue was already out the door, with hungry workers waiting their turn for hot soups, rice boxes and salads.
The globally influenced soup menu changes each week. Be sure to get the Keralan fish chowder if it’s available – the creamy mix of mild white fish in a rich coconut milk base was chock full of vegetables and bursting with flavour. For extra punch and spice, accept all the toppings on offer, which include yoghurt, coriander leaves and hot chillies. Thai noodle salad was also decent, with tender marinated beef and pops of fresh mint and shiso leaves (alas, the chicken satay version was less impressive). Extras from the fridge included a very drinkable berry lassi with tart yoghurt-y notes and a black rice pudding waving the flag for the gluten- and dairy-free brigade. By creating food that’s both healthy and comforting, Nusa has deservedly become a lunchtime hot spot.