Scott Hallsworth brings back Joe’s Oriental Diner

Less than a month after announcing the closure of his Balham restaurant Freak Scene, chef Scott Hallsworth has announced the return of Joe’s Oriental Diner in its place.

Joe’s Oriental Diner first popped up on London’s King’s Road in 2015, taking over the space where Hallsworth’s Kurobuta had begun life a couple of years earlier. 

Taking its cues from the diners, bars, street stalls and late-night eating spots of Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and beyond, dishes include Tuna Sashimi with Pomelo, Hot Miso, Pickled Chillies and Yuzu Soy (£14); Rare Thai Beef Salad with Roasted Peanuts and Burford Brown Egg Relish (£14); Jungle Curry of Quail with Sticky Rice and Lettuce Cups (£10); and Singapore Chilli Crab Wonton Bombs.

Hallsworth says the new restaurant is designed to be affordable enough for a Tuesday night and good enough for a Saturday night. Joe’s pairs its sharing plates with cocktails, cold beer and a short, sharp wine and sake list.

For Hallsworth, the return of Joe’s marks a return to the spirit of the original King’s Road restaurant.

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