The grub There’s a glut of London restaurants aiming for super-fancy, lovely-but-overpriced street food at the moment, but they don’t mess with old favourites here. The menu at Kin, which means “eat” in Thai, is simple and reasonably priced. Asian street markets, like Gurney Drive in Penang and Sukhumvit Soi 38 in Bangkok provide the inspiration for the fresh food you’ll find here. And you’ll get a lot of flavour for only a tiny dent in your wallet. There are staple dishes from all over south-east Asia – Japan, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, China, Indonesia – and they’re served up quickly by friendly, chilled-out staff. The chicken satay has a thick, nutty sauce that makes a satisfying start to the meal, and the Hoisin duck spring rolls are substantial and meaty. The green chicken curry packs a punch and the tender chicken comes with succulent vegetables. There’s a generous dollop of sauce and a healthy pile of steamed rice on the side. The list of desserts isn’t quite long enough but the finale of green tea ice cream is a refreshing, creamy end-of-meal treat and the banana fritters are sticky-sweet and homely.
Behind the bar There are popular Asian beers like Asahi, Chang and SIngha and a good choice of mid-range wines. Pop a prosecco cork if it’s been a particularly good day.
Bill please Starters from £2; mains from £6; desserts from £2.80; beers are all £3.50; wine from £3.80 a glass; prosecco £25.
verdict Kin is a tucked-away, street-food gem that’ll give anyone missing travels to far-flung Asian climes a much-needed dose of culinary nostalgia. A good place for mid-week dinner and drinks or a quick takeaway lunch – it’s simple, relaxed and
a top place to get your street-food fix. clare vooght