Restaurant Review: KiliG, London

Exploring the Unfamiliar Filipino-Colombian Fusion Cuisine

By Annabel Sinclair

I’ve never considered myself an adventurous eater, but rather a picky one, heavily reliant on a few well-loved foods. Yet the blend of two diverse cuisines, Filipino and Colombian, seemed rather enticing. Whether fuelled by an appetite for exploration or naturally succumbing to my curiosity, I wasn’t sure.

KiliG, conveniently tucked beneath the arches of Deptford railway station, has a warm and tropical feel. From the traditional Filipino wooden furniture to the colourful Colombian artwork adorning the walls, the décor alone immerses diners in a unique place where two rich cultures meet. I was hungry from the moment I heard the sound of food sizzling on hot pans and saw the array of dishes swiftly passing by on their way to tables.

The menu, though noticeably limited, showcases the chef’s creativity and diligence in blending a variety of bold ingredients and spices. I was served by a waitress who was not only attentive but enthusiastic in offering recommendations and guidance through the selection of unfamiliar dishes.

To begin, I settled on the Mushroom Adobo Croquettes, after learning that they were a vegetarian twist on the traditional Filipino chicken adobo. Particularly crispy on the outside, they were generously stuffed with creamy Colombian paipa cheese and a hint of paprika. A Latin American-inspired coriander aioli was drizzled over the top of the croquettes, serving as a delicious, yet a little spicy, companion.

Eager to sample more, I chose the Tortang Talong for the main course. This classic Filipino dish was pleasing to the eye and featured a savoury smoked aubergine fritter complemented by a Colombian-style beetroot and calamansi purée. Though the purée’s pronounced zest was slightly on the intense side, a colourful medley of pickled winter vegetables kept the dish from being too overpowering. I must admit, I hadn’t realised the potential of an aubergine until my visit to KiliG.

To accompany the meal I had a side, although it was sufficient to serve as a main dish, of Filipino Garlic Fried Rice. Exceptionally fluffy and topped with a mixture of spring and crispy onions, each mouthful offered a nice smoky flavour.

KiliG’s dedication to cultural authenticity is especially displayed in its dessert selection, which incorporates the sweetness of Colombian classics and the fruitiness of Filipino cuisine. I was compelled to try the deep purple Ube and Cassava Cheesecake, which was anything but your typical dessert. Though notably dense, its bold and earthy taste against the richness of the cream cheese created a flavour that was entirely new to my palate, and it sure was a pleasant one.

The outstandingly prompt service enabled me to savour each bite of my meal within the hour, making it the ideal spot for a quick yet unique dining experience. To end the afternoon, and to wash it all down, I tried the authentic Colombian Latte, a brew that, while somewhat bitter, had an exceedingly silky texture.

Just a week ago, I would have scoffed at the idea of eating, never mind enjoying, cuisines outside of my comfort zone. KiliG, with its authenticity portrayed in each dish, combined with a welcoming atmosphere, helpful staff, and reasonable prices, stands apart. I’m looking forward to returning to KiliG and exploring my newly discovered taste for diverse foods.