There is something about a line of trees with twinkling christmas lights that gets you in the mood for winter in London. Before you even get to the venue, the walk up to Bamboo Mat was almost enchanting – the crisp london air with an almost christmas-y vibe, set the scene for the night ahead.
The Venue
Bamboo Mat is a charming gem right in the heart of Stratford. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a delightful mix of modern decor and a touch of exotic flair. With its open kitchen and warm colours, the place feels inviting. It’s spacious enough to feel comfortable, even when it’s buzzing with diners. To top it off, a live band was serenading us with South American versions of familiar British songs, adding a fun twist to the evening that made it all the more memorable.
The Food Highlights
The keyword for the night was Sushi and Seafood!
We kicked things off the night with Fried Mozarella Sushi and a Seafood Cerviche. This was nothing short of sublime – the thin slices of Salmon, Scallops and Prawns were flavourful and fresh.
We then moved onto Grilled Octopus and Coriander Mash, and oh, what a dish! The octopus was grilled to perfection—tender with just the right amount of smoky char. The coriander mash was a lovely surprise; creamy and fresh, it complemented the octopus beautifully.
For dessert, we couldn’t resist the Crème Brûlée. It was everything you want in this classic treat. The custard was luxuriously silky, and the caramelised top offered that perfect crack when you dug in. It was sweet but not overpowering—a truly delightful way to finish the meal. It was made using authentic South American Vanilla which made me sad when I had finished it – luckily we had two!
The Verdict
All in all, our experience at Bamboo Mat was thoroughly enjoyable. The combination of fantastic food, a vibrant atmosphere, and the live band made for a lovely evening out. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed dinner or a fun night out with friends, this place is definitely worth a visit. I can’t recommend it highly enough!
