Tucked along Charlotte Street, Luso feels like a quiet celebration of Portuguese food done properly, without trying too hard to impress. It’s a modern Portuguese restaurant, but not in a flashy or experimental way, leaning into simplicity and letting good ingredients do most of the work. There’s even more reason to pay attention now, as it’s just been included in the Michelin Guide, a recognition that feels well deserved and a big moment for a restaurant still finding its rhythm.
The restaurant comes from the team at MJMK Restaurants, with Marco Mendes bringing a personal connection to the cuisine. In the kitchen, Leandro Carreira keeps things focused and precise. It also takes over the space that used to be Lisboeta, so there’s already a sense of continuity rather than a complete reset.
The food is where it all clicks. Think salt-baked sea bass, suckling pig with properly crisp skin, and clams cooked simply with garlic, olive oil and coriander. There are more casual moments too, like pregos, those satisfying Portuguese steak sandwiches. Desserts stick close to tradition, with almond tart and chocolate mousse finished with olive oil and sea salt.
And when you go, don’t skip the Martini Moment. It’s one of those small rituals that makes the whole experience feel a bit more special, mixing vermouth with extra brine, a splash of Lillet Blanc, and your choice of gin with lemon or vodka with olive oil. It all feels relaxed, confident, and now, officially recognised.
Luso
30 Charlotte Street
London W1T 2NG
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