How to spend a Sunday in Marylebone, with Ravinder Bhogal

RAHIL AHMAD

Ravinder Bhogal is quickly establishing herself as the Queen of Marylebone, with Jikoni – a melting pot of cuisines inspired by her myriad upbringing and heritage – a mecca for London foodies. Born in Kenya to Indian parents and raised in London, Ravinder’s cooking is an ode to Asian, African and Middle Eastern cuisine. His book Proudly inauthentic recipes from an immigrant kitchen, is a masterful collection of Jikoni’s best recipes. From his “Levantine Salmon Tartare with Marinated Fennel and Labneh” to “Tamarind-Maple Bacon with Fenugreek Waffles,” Ravinder’s list of recipes is as lively and vibrant as London itself.

Beyond the food, Jikoni’s interiors are some of the best in the UK. With decorative napkins printed in shades of pink dancing on the plush banquettes and color-blocked tableware, the magical dining room is both cozy and elevated.

Here, journalist, chef, restaurateur and writer Ravinder tells us about a dream Sunday spent in one of London’s most historic districts. Whether you’re a local looking to discover gems or a tourist needing some off-the-beaten-path tips in central London, this guide is like spending a day out with your fanciest friend.

Spend a Sunday in Marylebone with Ravinder Bhogal

I opened our Jikoni restaurant, in Marylebone village, eight years ago. This is where I met my husband; where we broke up, made up and fell in love. We chose to have our wedding blessed by Father Stephen Evans here in the beautiful parish of St Marylebone, where poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning also took her vows. Marylebone is where I’ve had my best and worst times, but this small London village offers several opportunities to make Sundays special.

I always start early with a quick walk around Regent’s Park, where our restaurant also appears during Frieze London. It’s especially spectacular in autumn, with falling leaves and fading light reminding us to cherish the impermanence of things – seasons, lives and love. Next, I stop at Monocle on Chiltern Street for a coffee, followed by a stop at Shreeji News for my Sunday papers – it’s the most luxurious newsagent that also has a gallery space. Once caffeinated, I stroll to the Marylebone Farmers’ Market, a constant rain or shine. You can find everything from the freshest seasonal organic and biodynamic produce to handmade cakes, breads and pastas. But the market is not just about food: it is particularly comforting to see the same faces every week – a feeling of community.

Marylebone Farmers Market

Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

We do a wonderful globally inspired brunch at Jikoni, but eating at my restaurant means I’m tempted to work, so I grab a bite at La Fromagerie instead, which is cheese nirvana. Owner Patricia Michelson is London’s most prominent cheesemaker and champion of highly-provenance produce and someone I really admire for her business acumen – she’s had her beautiful shop here for over 30 years and is full of wisdom. I will never be able to resist their fabulous grilled cheese sandwiches. I particularly like the truffle one, which is cooked until perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. I eat it with a side of pickles to cut the richness. I try to eat healthy during the week, but weekends are more indulgent. Life is short – eat the grilled cheese sandwich. You can also buy a magnificent truffle brie made on site in the cheese shop, as well as the best Italian milk chocolate buttons (which Patricia told me to keep in the fridge – she was right – there are no better sensory pleasures than cold chocolate). melts on the tongue.) Their candlelit fondue at La Fromagerie is also my idea of ​​a dream evening. You get the picture – I’m a fan.