Aqua Bar & Grill - Croydon

Savor South Croydon's Hidden Culinary Gem!

Stepping into Noto, a reinvigorated culinary gem residing in the heart of South Croydon, one is greeted by a sense of warmth and spirited hospitality that has seemingly become its hallmark. The transformation from the old Aqua into Noto is not merely nominal; it’s a rejuvenation that has colored and deepened the dining experience. Tantalizing aromas waft through the charmingly understated interior, where soft ambient lighting coalesces with the gentle hum of conversation, crafting an atmosphere both inviting and electric with the quiet promise of delightful indulgence. Set against the backdrop of imminent live jazz and R&B lunchtime sessions, Noto captivates diners’ imaginations as much as their palates. The three-course lunch menu sings with spirited simplicity—a wealth of flavors without a hint of pretension, skillfully drawing from the Mediterranean ethos of fresh ingredients and soulful cooking.

Culinary delights abound here, from the delicate pan-seared sea bass paired elegantly with creamy mashed potatoes to the velvety spinach soup that set the stage for what unfolds as a memorable epicurean journey. Critics and patrons alike commend the unassuming yet slick execution of classic dishes—with starters such as the earthy souffle of spinach and melting feta encased in golden pastry or lamb Kleftiko falling tenderly off depurated bone amidst succulent juices. Service remains Noto's stalwart force, weaving attentiveness with understated flair, while hearty endorsements have been uniformly lavished upon desserts like Baileys crème brûlée, which offers a novel twist on cherished tradition. Despite the occasional hiccup—a bathroom less pristine than preferred or the absence of citrus adornments alongside fish servings—Noto promises a veritable feast in sensory splendor and intimate charm, making it a definitive destination for both stalwarts of the local dining scene and newcomers seeking a culinary haven. — Jasper Griddle