Introducing JOIA, London’s newest culinary sensation, brought to life by the acclaimed two Michelin-starred Portuguese chef, Henrique S?? Pessoa. With a passion for his culinary heritage and adventures across the Portuguese Iberian Peninsula, he’s crafted a dining experience like no other.
But why “JOIA”? In Portuguese, it translates to “jewel,” and this gem of a venue is perched high on the 14th and 15th floors of art’otel London Battersea Power Station. Offering breathtaking views of the London skyline, it’s a standout among the city’s view-centric eateries.
As for the interior, it’s a masterpiece. Russell Sage Studio drew inspiration from the Power Station’s art deco style, infusing it with modern and mid-century elements. Step inside to discover serene, welcoming spaces adorned with natural wood floors, beautiful pastel hues, and lush potted plants, evoking a Mediterranean ambiance even during London’s harsh winter.
Beyond the million-dollar views ??? yes, they’re that good ??? Henrique S?? Pessoa’s menus embark on a flavour-packed journey. Starting with authentic Iberian ingredients, he adds his unique twist, and he’s equally discerning about sourcing top-notch British produce.
The food is truly exquisite, featuring a selection of snacks, petiscos, and tapas. “La Bomba de Lisbon,” Henrique’s signature croquette made with potato and traditional Portuguese Alheira sausage, served with tomato and sofrito sauce, is a showstopper. Equally so is the octopus salad with red pepper, potato, and smoked paprika. Mains ??? served in the restaurant ??? include grilled leeks with romesco, salted cod esqueixada, and grilled Carabinero prawns with orzo bisque ??? a mouthwatering lineup, to say the least.
Descend a grand staircase to ??? in my opinion, the pi??ce de resistance ??? JOIA’s bar on the 14th floor, and you’ll be wowed. The massive L-shaped bar boasts a marble top and brass accents, framed by ribbed timber painted in a chic pink that complements the restaurant’s colour scheme. It’s a work of art in itself. Perhaps a little less formal than the restaurant a floor above, JOIA bar is the perfect spot for a cocktail (or three) paired with ridiculously moreish bites. A special mention goes to the Spanish Tortilla. With an ever-so-slightly runny middle, it???s the stuff culinary dreams are made of.
Bar Manager Alessandro Mannello has crafted a creative cocktail list inspired by JOIA’s name, with each cocktail named after regional gems, reflecting their colours and delicate qualities. My favourite, the “Safira Rosa???, is a mezcal-based cocktail with elderflower, grapefruit soda, and rose petal water. A close second is the ???Onix???, a perfect blend of Gin Mahon, lychee, rose and ??? yes, really ??? squid ink. There is also a fantastic selection of Portuguese and Spanish wines and vermouths, focusing on hidden gems.
The next time you???re asked what you made for dinner, reply with ???reservations???.
15th Floor, 1 Electric Blvd, Nine Elms, London SW11 8BJ
