Donde Carlos

Authentic Colombian Flavors Delight in London

Stepping into Donde Carlos, nestled in bustling Shepherd’s Bush, is akin to a warm embrace from a cherished Colombian aunt—a seamless blend of vibrant ambience and genuine culinary expertise. As I crossed the threshold, a sense of familial warmth enveloped me, much owed to the exuberant hospitality of Claudia and her charming team. Her vivacious spirit was infectious, setting a delightful prelude to an evening that would ultimately send my taste buds dancing through Colombia's gastronomic landscape. The empanadas, crisp and fragrant, set the stage—a testament to this hidden treasure claiming its rightful place as one of the best venues for Colombian cuisine in London.

The star act, however, was the bandeja paisa, a symphony of flavors meticulously curated on one plate, rivaling any I’ve sampled on Colombia’s own sun-drenched streets. The heartiness of each dish was only outdone by the generosity of the portions, tailored for those culinary romantics on a quest for authenticity. Even amidst minor missteps—occasional over-seasoning here or there—the sincerity with which each dish was presented compensated splendidly. Patrons are artistically accompanied by the soulful hum of traditional music, perpetuating the sense of being whisked away to a more idyllic clime. An immersion into unpretentious joy, Donde Carlos is not merely a restaurant but an ode to home—truly, a little slice of Colombia flourishing in west London. — Nigel Gourmet