Noted Eel And Pie House Reviews

Ever felt like you've tried every foodie spot in town, but still crave something... unique? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive into the delightfully peculiar world of Noted Eel & Pie House, a hidden gem that's got the internet buzzing with curiosity and cravings.

An Unlikely Pairing

At first glance, eel and pie might seem like an odd couple, like a PB&J sandwich with a side of caviar. But hold onto your taste buds, because this culinary oddity is actually a match made in heaven. The Noted Eel & Pie House is the brainchild of chef Alexandre Leclair, who decided to combine his French heritage with his love for Japanese cuisine, resulting in a menu that's as intriguing as it is delicious.

Eel by the Numbers

Before we dive into the pies, let's talk eel. This slippery creature might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a gourmet meal, but it's been a staple in Japanese cuisine for centuries. In fact, the Japanese consume more eel than any other country, with over 50,000 tons of it being eaten annually. And it's not just about the taste - eel is packed with nutrients and is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, earning it the nickname "the Viagra of the sea".

But enough about the bedroom benefits, let's get back to the kitchen. The eel at Noted is prepared in the traditional Japanese style, with a sweet and savory sauce that's to die for. It's then served on a bed of steamed rice, with a side of pickled vegetables to cut through the richness. It's a dish that's equal parts comforting and exotic, and it's just the beginning of the Noted experience.

Pie-ning Down the Classics

Now, let's talk pie. The Noted Eel & Pie House offers a rotating selection of pies that are as innovative as they are delicious. From the classic Steak & Ale to the more adventurous Coconut Curry Chicken, each pie is a labor of love, with a crust that's flaky and golden, and a filling that's rich and hearty.

But the real star of the pie show is the Eel & Cheddar. Yes, you read that right. Eel and cheddar. It might sound like a recipe for disaster, but trust us, it's a match made in heaven. The creamy cheddar sauce complements the sweetness of the eel, while the pastry provides a satisfying crunch. It's a pie that's equal parts comforting and challenging, and it's not for the faint-hearted.

Man photographs all London's pie and mash shops as they face dying out

Pie Tips from the Pros

If you're feeling inspired to try your hand at pie-making at home, we've got some tips straight from the Noted kitchen. First up, chill your ingredients. Cold butter and flour are the key to a flaky crust, so keep everything in the fridge until you're ready to use it. Next, don't overwork the dough. The more you knead, the tougher the crust will be, so aim for just a few gentle turns.

And finally, be brave with your fillings. The Noted team isn't afraid to experiment, and neither should you. Who knows, you might just create the next big thing in pie history.

More Than Just Food

The Noted Eel & Pie House isn't just about the food - it's about the experience. The interior is a charming mix of vintage and modern, with exposed brick walls and retro-inspired decor. It's a place where you can kick back with a craft beer (they've got an impressive selection) and lose yourself in the moment.

And if you're feeling extra adventurous, why not try the Eel & Pie Challenge? It's a three-course feast that starts with a bowl of eel broth, followed by a whole eel (yes, you read that right) and finished off with a slice of eel and cheddar pie. It's not for the faint-hearted, but it's a hell of a lot of fun.

Leytonstoner

Cultural Connection

But why eel, you ask? Well, it turns out that this humble creature has a rich cultural history. In Japan, eel is often served on special occasions, with the belief that it brings good fortune and prosperity. It's also a symbol of fertility, which might explain why it's often served on weddings and other celebrations.

And it's not just the Japanese who love their eel. In the UK, eel pie has been a staple since the 19th century, with the first recorded recipe dating back to 1809. It was a favorite among the working class, who appreciated its hearty and affordable nature.

Reflecting on the Everyday

As we leave the Noted Eel & Pie House, we can't help but reflect on the beauty of the everyday. In a world that's constantly pushing us to be bigger, better, faster, it's easy to forget that sometimes, the simplest things can bring the most joy.

Whether it's the comfort of a well-made pie or the thrill of trying something new, the Noted Eel & Pie House is a reminder that life's greatest pleasures often come from the most unexpected places. So next time you're feeling adventurous, why not give it a try? You never know, you might just discover your new favorite dish.