The Art of Luxury Issue 62 2024 | Page 116

116 FOOD & DRINK

INTRODUCING HOVARDA & CHEF JOHN SKOTIDAS

LONDON ’ S MOST VIBRANT MODERN GREEK RESTAURANT IN THE HEART OF SOHO APPOINTS NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF

Whole Lobster Orzo with lobster bisque chilli oil and marjoram - £ 80.00
Hovarda , the Aegean-inspired restaurant nestled amongst some of London ’ s finest restaurants on Rupert Street , is thrilled to announce the appointment of its new Executive Chef , John Skotidas .
Chef John Skotidas , who is Greek South American , has rapidly risen in the culinary world , former Executive Chef of Greek favourites Mazi , SuziTros and ZEPHYR in Notting Hill , and internationally at Abra Ovata in Lake Vouliagmenis Greece , in Athens .
He combines modern Greek cuisine with rich flavours and influences from South America and Asia , demonstrated in the new menu which recently launched at Hovarda , focusing on dishes from the area surrounding the Aegean Sea , an arm of the Mediterranean located between the idyllic Greek and Turkish coasts .
Chef John Skotidas cultivated his passion for the culinary arts at the renowned Le Monde institute in Athens , winning the Lumina competition in 2018 . His ambition is to create innovative Greek food and educate diners on Greek food , its traditions and ingredients . These influences have been cultivated by his upbringing and early career .
Signature dishes include :
Saganaki , served with kataifi barrel aged fetam truffle honey and basil - £ 20.00
Octopus , with fava bean puree , onion & fennel marmalade - £ 32.00
Seabass Tartare plated with egglemon , fig and kohlrabi - £ 18.00
Hovarda ’ s impressive lounge bar serves an expansive list of spirits , classic and signature cocktails inspired by Mediterranean notes . From Bellini ’ s , Caipirinha ’ s to its Mykonos Sour , Hovarda ’ s bar offers regular live music and guests DJ throughout the evenings .
The term ‘ hovarda ’, which is used in both Turkish and Greek , playfully references a generous host with a free spirit which is reflected throughout the restaurant .
Opening Times : Monday : closed Tuesday – Saturday : 5pm – 1am Sunday : closed
Address : 36-40 Rupert St , London W1D 6DW Social : @ hovarda _ london | Website : hovarda . london
THE ART OF LUXURY ISSUE 62 2024