It was fun spending a few days in London just before Christmas. I haven't been back to the UK for over four years, so it was interesting to see how things have changed — the prevalence of cashless cafes and restaurants hinting at a significant social shift, one of the few reminders of the pandemic with COVID seemingly in the rearview mirror.
It was fascinating to note the Japanese influence that has permeated the city. There seemed to be a Japanese restaurant or bento takeout place on every corner, with names such as "Wasabi" or "Itsu" announcing themselves to the crowded streets with their shop names wrought in artful hiragana and electric neon colours.
Piping-hot udon noodles topped with cranberries, stuffing, and fried Brussel sprouts.
The shelves were stocked with local takes on traditional Japanese fare, with some of the most eye-catching being the seasonal specials. I couldn't resist trying the festive udon at the Marugame Udon restaurant in Oxford Circus; piping-hot udon noodles topped with cranberries, stuffing, and fried Brussel sprouts. While I'm not sure how well this dish would go down in the backstreets of Tokyo, this bizarre yet heart-warming bowl was a welcome way to combat the winter chill.
Merry Christmas :)
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