Launching on 23rd May 2014, Canela brings the diverse and exciting flavours of Portugal to Covent Garden. Featuring a menu of regional classics and specialities alongside modern plates and a dedicated wine list, Canela will serve up contemporary yet authentic Portuguese cuisine.
Opened eleven years ago as Canela Café by Suzanna Pascoal and Suki Lam, the long established venue was a favourite in Covent Garden. Now, Canela has been updated in line with the owners’ passions and London’s burgeoning restaurant scene. Everything in Canela has painstakingly sourced by its Portuguese and Brazilian owners; from its beautiful 1950s light fittings and gleaming marble, to the speciality cheeses and rare, boutique local wines.
Having been refurbished and extended in to Shorts Gardens, Canela has had a new room added. The result is an extra 30 covers, double aspect windows, and a fresh, airy feel. The new interiors are light and elegant, with teal blue wood panelling, high ceilings and original marble topped tables. Retro features add quirky to classic, as leather stools and a wall adorned with old wireless radios face wine-stocked shelves and delicate chandeliers.
Canela uses produce sourced and imported directly from Portugal and the menu features the freshest, finest food, charcuterie, cheeses and wine from specialist regions around the country. Created by Susanna and Suki themselves, each dish at Canela has been developed from original recipes and family favourites, adding a sophisticated touch with high quality ingredients, careful flavour pairing, and imaginative presentation.
The menu is divided into small ‘Petisco’ plates and platters that are perfect for nibbling with wine or sharing, alongside larger mains, salads and desserts. Examples from the menu include:
Small Plates
Alheira Mini Burgers with quail eggs
Squid Boat with chorizo, peppers, spiced tomatoes
Liver In Port Wine Sauce with glazed red onions
Large Plates & Platters
Creamy Black Rice With Prawns dressed in olive oil and fresh herbs
Bacalhau à Bras traditional mix of salt cod, potatoes and eggs
Pata Negra
Desserts
‘Romeo & Juliet’ goiabada and mascarpone
Pudim Caramelo
The star of Canela is its wine list. Canela boasts a wide range of high quality Portuguese wines, all of which are sold by the glass and all carefully selected from various regions and small vineyards by Susana.
Examples from the wine list include:
White
Arca Nova Alvarinho 2013, Vinho verde
Quita da Lagoalva 2011, Reserva
Red
Estate Collection 2011, Lisboa 2011 - Quinta do Pinto
Casa de Darei 2012, Dão
Torre do Frade Reserva 2007, Alentejo
Sparkling
Campolargo Brut Rosé 2011, Bairrada
The 44 cover restaurant is now situated over two streets, doubling up as a bustling deli by day and a charming wine bar and restaurant by night. Open all day, Canela is perfect for a business lunch, pre-theatre meal or post work glass of wine. The new dining room is ideal for private events and large parties, and with tables outside, Canela is the perfect place to while away the summer months.