on tuesday evening i was invited along the launch of wiggies, a porky-lovin’ pop-up restaurant by lucy hambro, piggy-backing at the rising sun pub near st. paul’s. as regular readers know, i’m a bit of a bacon-lover so naturally my taste buds were raring to go and excited for the flavour-fest that was to ensue!
at the launch event i was treated to a delectable 4 course ‘nose-to-tail’ dinner consistign of: black pudding cappuccino (confusingly served in an espresso cup, but don’t let that deter you!); ham hock terrine with crackling dusted butternut squash and crispy pigs ear, served with a delicious rhubarb relish with spicy kick; seared scallop with hot smoked pork belly and ham hock, with asparagus and peas (who knew to pair scallops with pork – i do now!); and finally, an apple and cardamon pork fat crumble galette with fragrant mango lassi sauce.
all the dishes were light and flavourful, and not at all overpoweringly “piggy” as i had feared. i’d also been concerned about eating the pig-parts i wouldn’t usually touch with a bargepole, but the black pudding cappuccino was a delightful meaty-flavoured broth, and the intriguing pairing of scallops with hot smoked pork belly was inspired. always a fan of the sweet and salty combinations, i also loved the dessert with it’s hint of piggy fat underlining the cardamon – remember these maple bacon cookies i made last august?
even the cocktails were piggy inspired; after knocking back the complimentary te’squeelers (made gold tequila, jamaican ting and lemon – geddit?) i opted for a trotsky (vodka, lime, ginger beer & cucumber) while my dining companion chose the pig chill (gin with lemon juice & ginger beer), both served in retro-chic jam jars.
all this tempting the taste-buds? well, you’d best be quick as this piggy pop-up is only open for 4 months (with plans hopefully a-foot to extend ’til christmas)…
wiggies london, upstairs at the rising sun pub, 61 carter lane, ec4
