Etles Uyghur Restaurant

Irresistible Handmade Noodles: A Culinary Delight!

Having recently ventured to Etles Uyghur Restaurant, I walked away with my palate joyfully singing holiday notes from a lesser-trodden corner of the gastronomic world. Nestled off central London's beaten path, this unassuming eatery charmed me with its handmade noodles—delicately spun threads that were robustly chewy, showcasing an artisanal touch that's often promised yet rarely achieved in the metropolis. The establishment is cozy, crafted visually and atmospherically into transporting you somewhere between East Asia and the vast Turkish steppes. Dim yet welcoming lighting, alongside the rustic wafts of cumin and fresh lamb grilling, sets the stage for an adventurous culinary journey.

Etles not only whets the appetite but conquers the tongue. The nuanced yet assertive dishes, particularly the famed Big Plate Chicken rich with umami-savvy spices, stand as strong evidence of cookery steeped deeply in tradition. Skewers of lamb, punctuated by a pinch of indulgent heat and a sprinkle of tangy gloss, emerged irresistibly succulent while defiantly resisting the modish minimalism of portion size. Soft dumplings swam amidst intoxicating aromatic broths that were neither overbearing nor shy. It’s the service here, however, that rounds out the experience—cheerful and efficient, complementing the hustle and banter of patrons enjoying their BYO bottles of wine. For anyone eager to sample authentic whispers of Uyghur cuisine with an added cultural charm, Etles presents itself as a worthy detour from well-worn city dining routes. — Jasper Griddle