Tootoomoo is a Pan-Asian Tapas restaurant that aims to transport diners from the streets of Crouch End to the authentic ‘shophouses’ of Vietnam and Malaysia – no easy task! They serve up quality street food inspired by the flavours of Asian markets.
Named after an Indonesian folklore story about a hungry giant, Tootoomoo is the brainchild of Philip McGuiness and Executive Chef Ricky Pang. Launching a brand new menu, the idea is that sharing plates take centre stage. Diners are encouraged to try a variety of dishes from the different sections of the menu, which is split into Plates, Salads, Sushi and Tempura/Wok.
However, before we get on to the food, let’s talk drinks. Tootoomoo offers a range of cocktails from a Lychee Martini and Passion Fruit Bellini to a Classic Margarita and Mojito. We tried the Pineapple Ginger Mojito (Rum, pineapple, ginger, fresh lime, fresh mint). Ice cold, light and gingery, it served as the perfect aperitif to the meal.
Now, to the food. The Crispy Smoked Chicken was served with a chilli salt and spicy mayo and had a beautiful smoked flavour that wasn’t lost when battered. The Yuzu Salmon Maki and California Prawn sushi was fresh and packed with filling, and the Popcorn Shrimp with yuzu mayo was what you hope for in a tempura batter.
For a Wok dish, we tried the Beef Rendang Curry. The beef was beautifully tender, it fell apart when touched and had a great flavour. However for our tastes, the curry itself could have had a little more kick. Our standout dish from the evening however, was the Grilled Salmon with Spiced Den Miso and Mixed leaves. The salmon was cooked to perfection and the spiced den miso added a sweet and spicy flavour without overpowering the salmon.
Designed as a mix and match sharing menu, we would encourage you to go along with a big group of friends – that way you can try a bigger selection from the menu! Tootoomoo is also available on Deliveroo or for collection. Winter is coming after all…