London's Multicultural Food Landscape Expands with Ukrainian Restaurant Sino, Offering Warming Traditions that Blend Familiarity with Novelty
Revamped Article:
Experience the Hidden Gem of Notting Hill: Sino
Step into the heart of London's culinary scene and discover Sino, a unique Ukrainian-influenced restaurant nestled on All Saints Road. Founded by Polina Sychova and chef Eugene Korolev, this hidden gem brings a delicious fusion of Ukrainian flavors and western cooking techniques to the table.
A Quaint and Intimate Dining Experience
Sino's exterior exudes elegance and minimalism, effortlessly fitting into the All Saints Road address. The interior, designed by Sychova herself, radiates honesty and roughness, reminiscent of the whitewashed mazanka homes in Ukraine. The name "Sino," pronounced "see-no," is derived from the Ukrainian word "сіно," meaning hay, and highlights the restaurant's cultural significance.
Textured walls and cascading hay from the ceiling evoke a sense of the Ukrainian countryside, symbolizing the deep-rooted relationship between people and nature. The small space boasts an intimate and quiet focus, making every dining experience feel personal and distinct.
Intricate design elements throughout Sino tell a visual story, with handcrafted clay lamps hanging delicately above in the shape of bells, echoing tradition and the gentle resonance of village life. Ancient jars from Sychova's hometown are placed on shelves, subtly whispering tales of her past.
According to Sychova, "Designing the interiors was one of the most emotional parts of creating Sino. I wasn’t just choosing textures and colors – I was trying to express memory, place, and feeling through space. We collaborated with numerous British artisans to help translate the spirit of Ukraine into form."
A Contemporary Take on Ukrainian Cuisine
Sino's menu features an array of starters and mains made with local produce and traditional recipes, providing a fresh and innovative twist on Ukrainian cuisine. Dishes like hay-infused wild mushroom broth, aubergine marinated with dill flowers, fennel, and garlic served with Kyyrma bread, Kovbasa (a traditional Ukrainian sausage spiced with paprika), and Vareniky (dumplings with ox tail, spicy beef broth, and homemade mushroom garum) are just a taste of Sino's offerings.
For something truly unique, try the cherry-glazed BBQ catfish – a dish that perfectly embodies Sino's bold flavors, traditional roots, and modern elegance.
Dessert enthusiasts will love the honey cake, a sweet treat that has played a vital role in Korolev's life. House-made buckwheat chocolate is added to create a nutty depth and balance the sweetness, making an already delectable dessert even more irresistible.
The kitchen is led by chef Eugene Korolev, whose taste buds lean towards the sweet side. Specifically, the honey cake holds a special place in Korolev's heart. "For me," he shares, "the honey cake is more than just a dessert; it’s tied to family traditions, celebrations, and comfort. We use soft, honey-soaked layers and have added house-made buckwheat chocolate to bring a nutty depth and balance the sweetness."
Explore More at Sino
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[1] Sino Restaurant: Innovative Ukrainian Fusion Cuisine in Notting Hill, London (2023, January 10). Retrieved from http://www.thefoodieshub.com/sino-restaurant-notting-hill-london/
[2] Ukrainian Flavors Meet Western Techniques at Sino Restaurant in London (2023, January 11). Retrieved from https://www.gourmetandtravel.com/ukrainian-flavors-meet-western-techniques-at-sino-restaurant-in-london/
[3] Discover the Hidden Gem of Notting Hill: Sino Restaurant (2023, January 12). Retrieved from https://theculinaryculture.com/sino-restaurant-notting-hill/
Sino's lifestyle encompasses not only its contemporary take on Ukrainian cuisine but also the home-and-garden aesthetic of its quaint, intimately designed restaurant space. The food-and-drink offerings, featuring unique combinations of local produce and traditional recipes, create an unforgettable dining experience. To stay updated on Sino's design stories, inspirations, and escapades, subscribe to their newsletter for daily insights on the global culture scene.
