I decided to try Plates because it had just been awarded a Michelin star, the first vegan restaurant in London to do so. This restaurant made one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life, and neither my partner nor I are vegan. Plates makes only one fixed-price, seven course meal. Every course was immaculately crafted and presented with joy. The service was simply excellent, with every dish carefully explained and presented.
I also had a non-alcoholic apple-ginger cocktail that was perfection. After raving about it to our server, they soon returned with a piece of paper for me. The bartender had written down the recipe so I could recreate it at home. This kindness and attention carried throughout the meal.
As one of the hottest restaurants in London right now, I can only wish you luck in getting a table. I got a reservation out of sheer luck. I set an alert for one specific date and time, a table happened to come available, and I booked it before anyone else got to it. Also of note: this is not a cheap meal. With non-alcoholic beverages included, this meal cost us about $300. At the end of it, my partner said, “I never understood why people would pay hundreds of dollars for a meal. I get it now.” Food, service, ambience: Everything was perfection. As a bonus, the lack of a dress code and minimalist decor made the place feel inviting, comfortable, and unpretentious. This is a once-a-decade meal. We’re still talking about it, two weeks later. If I had the disposable income again, I would go far out of my way to eat here.