Twisted London

When I approached Twisted London, armed with mixed expectations from an erratic collection of reviews, I had steeled myself for a culinary ride as unpredictable as their online reputation suggested. My visit felt akin to digging through a chaotic treasure chest with hopes of striking gold amid disappointments, and in many ways, that's exactly what happened. Inside, Twisted London's kitchen delivers a casual, no-frills atmosphere accented by a dedicated and passionately driven team—particularly Osman, who orchestrated my meal with enthusiasm comparable to that of a high-end fine-dining host. His recommendation, the BBQ Chipotle wings, was exceptionally golden and crisp, proving that sometimes a standout staff suggestion can elevate an entire dining experience.

As I bit into these much-praised wings, I found myself experiencing a moment of culinary clarity: juicy meat, crisp, unsung perfection, and a sauce that demanded attention. However, this brief triumph met dwindling expectations with some of their other offerings. For instance, the supposedly decadent loaded fries felt more like a pared-down sidekick instead of the groundbreaking feature dish they’re marketed to be. Despite setbacks in execution—like burgers that barely skim above passable—the staff’s warmth and outspoken 'Osmanmania' did lend Twisted London a charming, albeit rough-around-the-edges character. If you wander in looking for the perfect wing-night fix and a congenial server to blur the lines between fast-food mundanities and niche culinary finds, you just might find your niche here, although it leaves room for improvement elsewhere. — Clarissa Cuisinier