Belly bistro to bring Filipino-European cuisine and wood-fired cooking to Kentish Town

On the 8th of May, a new bistro blending Filipino and European flavours will open its doors in Kentish Town. Belly is the latest venture from restaurateur Omar Shah, who proposes a special approach to world cuisine and, over the years, has developed a growing portfolio of restaurants in the capital. The intimate 35-seat venue aims to offer local diners a menu centred around wood-fired cooking.

Omar Shah, who grew up in Kentish Town and is of Filipino and Bangladeshi heritage, has been involved in the London restaurant scene for over two decades. His previous projects include Ramo Ramen in Soho, which focuses on Filipino-style ramen, Mamasons Dirty Ice Cream in Chinatown and Kentish Town, and the modern Filipino restaurant Donia, also in Soho. Earlier this month, Shah also launched two new takeaway projects in North London: Café Mama and Sons, specialising in baked goods, and Hoodwood, a Caribbean takeaway.

Belly’s menu will feature a combination of modern Filipino and European dishes, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and wood-fired techniques. Starters counts on French classics with an Asian twist, such as Steak Tartare served with cured yolk and nori-seasoned crisps. Seafood options are also present, including Diver Scallops with malt vinegar and fermented shrimp coconut sauce, as well as a Pandesal Cod Tempura Slider with Ikura Tartar, using bread from the neighbouring Café Mama and Sons.

Among the highlights for the main courses, there are Wood-fired Wagyu Picanha with peppercorn and liver sauce, Oak-smoked Tinola Chicken with caper, ginger and coriander salsa verde, and Wood-smoked Sticky Tamarind Lamb Ribs. Sides such as Kombu Butter and Coconut Vinegar Wood-fired Potatoes, and Beef Fat Fries with house-made sriracha Thousand Island dipping sauce, have been created as the perfect accompaniment. Desserts will entail the likes of a Frozen Custard Profiterole with Fish Sauce Caramel and Coconut Pie with Chantilly Cream.

The restaurant’s interior presents white tablecloths, bentwood chairs, and large windows for natural light, for a relaxed bistro atmosphere.  The wine list will offer a global selection available by the glass or bottle.

Omar Shah said he wanted Belly to be a new kind of bistro where brave cooking and a bold blend of seasonal ingredients creates a menu that is both simple and unique. This latest opening marks another addition to the restorateur’s portfolio of venues, each reflecting his interest in Asian-inspired cuisine and neighbourhood dining.

Food Desk

For further information and reservations, visit Belly’s website here.