Claro London is a modern Mediterranean restaurant with Middle Eastern influences at 12 Waterloo Place in St James’s. Originating in Tel Aviv, the restaurant occupies a historic listed building with an open kitchen, bar, terrace and private dining rooms. Head chef Shadi Issawy uses seasonal British produce, aromatic herbs and spices to create generous dishes intended for sharing.
Bread and dips establish the style of the menu. Frena arrives with matbucha, labneh and harissa, while warm kubaneh is paired with grated tomato, zhoug and sour cream. A larger tasting selection brings breads together with green tahini and aubergine, cucumber with turmeric, fresh pickles and chilli. Sardines, tuna tartare, yellowtail crudo and lamb cigars add cured fish, seafood and meat to the smaller plates.
Larger dishes move between pappardelle with aubergine relish and Cretan cheese, seared octopus, halibut, pork rib and bavette steak. A whole butterflied sea bass and a lamb platter with tzatziki, matbucha, pickled vegetables and pita are designed for the table. Charcoal grilled meat, seasonal vegetable preparations and sauces based on yoghurt, tahini, herbs and fruit keep the selection varied across fish, meat and meat free choices.
Sides such as grilled cabbage, potato gratin, okra and green salad introduce skordalia, cacio e pepe seasoning, smoked labneh and roasted garlic walnuts. Desserts change with the produce available, while the wine list, signature cocktails and alcohol free drinks support both a full dinner and a shorter bar visit. Set lunch, pre theatre dining and leisurely weekend menus offer different ways to experience Claro through the week.
Address: 12 Waterloo Place, St James’s, London SW1Y 4AU, United Kingdom