Our Review Of HUŎ Belsize Village: Daikon Cakes And Fresh Pan-Asian Fare At London's New Restaurant

Every now and then, you visit a place in London that makes you feel like you’re in a romantic film. I got that energy walking through leafy Belsize Village, with the charming, bunting-lined main square and grand townhouses. Knowing where to eat can be tricky, but tucked away off a quiet side street lies brand new Asian restaurant HUŎ, which opened in September. 

Check out the stylish bar section, flaunting driftwood-like stools. The colourful mains (pictured) are equally easy on the eye.

DesignMyNight's Review Of HUŎ Belsize Village

A sister site to the much-loved Chelsea restaurant, HUŎ Belsize Park promises more of the same fresh, healthy cuisine spanning across China and South East Asia. Previously a Victorian pub, this space has been transformed into a bright, airy paradise, boasting cream-coloured tones and stunning oval rattan lampshades that reminded me of my time in Hoi An. Decor-wise, I loved the Mondrian-like straight lines on the walls, containing square mirrors and Chinese pottery.

The layout was very cleverly designed, with crescent-moon shaped, dark blue patterned banquettes in the centre and smaller tables dotted around the outside. Paired with turquoise accents throughout, it had an upmarket beach vibe.

My dinner date and I were lucky enough to bag a booth (it was a great spot as it meant I could easily eye up everyone else’s food being brought to them) and admired the chic marble tables and cosy, warm lighting as we browsed the lengthy HUO London menu. Following a staff recommendation, kicking things off in style was my lychee martini (£15.50); a summery twist on the classic. Prepare for the unmistakable hit of vodka and vermouth, but balanced with sweet fruit. Starting off strong, in more ways than one. Meanwhile, my other half went booze-free for the night with a refreshing 0% Asahi (£5.50).

The HUO Belsize Park reviews tell us how pretty the surrounds are, including geometric pannelling and hanging lanterns.

I have never had the pleasure of trying daikon cakes (£11.70) before but consider me now officially hooked. Our host explained that the Asian winter radishes are first steamed, then wok-fried in an oyster sauce – quickly becoming one of the most-ordered items on the menu. I wasn’t expecting such a bouncy texture, but honestly these crisp, non-greasy globes, sat on a bed of juicy bean sprouts and peanuts, were a delight. Being a vegetarian, I’m glad to say the HUŎ team were very attentive with dietary requirements, even making sure the egg in this dish was ok to include.

Next up on the HUO Belsize Park menu were my partner’s peppercorn salted prawns (£16.60), plump mouthfuls presented with giant slices of red chilli and a sprinkling of crispy onion. This fiery number went down a treat, although a dipping sauce on the side would have been a nice addition.

As I sipped a chilled glass of light and floral Picpoul de Pinet (£13.30), the mains arrived. Although normally one who shies away from choosing salads, my bang bang tofu (£15.50) excelled. Think shreds of cucumber, carrot and red pepper, alongside cherry tomato, covered in a nutty, creamy dressing. The tofu itself was golden and earthy, and they didn’t scrimp here which I was very pleased to see, plus this dish had just the right amount of heat that hit the back of my throat with every bite. It’s worth saying the portion was very generous, and I felt very full without being uncomfortable. 

Trust us when we say the daikon cakes are a must, washed down with an elegant (and tasty) cocktail. 

After looking up the HUŎ Belsize Village photos online, the Thai sea bass fillet (£26.60) was my date’s number one choice. Steamed with chilli and lemongrass, this flaky fish with zingy citrus oil proved to be incredibly morish. Our advice? Add a side, perhaps jasmine rice (£4.90), as that would finish off the dish perfectly.

Our final item picked from the HUO Belsize Park restaurant menu was dessert - toffee banana fritters (£8.90), a signature (and very popular) pud. Imagine a crunchy outer layer revealing velvety sweet fruit inside, sprinkled with sesame seeds. We loved every piping hot, sugary bite, but personally I would have served it alongside a silky ice cream for contrast. 

HUŎ Belsize Village Review: Overall

HUŎ London is a true neighbourhood gem, not far from glorious Hampstead Heath, and we had a wonderful time trying new flavours. Service was calm and friendly without being overbearing, plus special shout out to the interiors. The muted, understated ivory tones were very aesthetic, staying true to the restaurant’s fresh, clean ethos.  

In the area? Discover more impressive Belsize Park restaurants with our ultimate roundup.