Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night can be a big night on Morning Lane in Hackney, East London - or at least that's what chefs Joshua Ralphs and Jack O'Connor's restaurant Big Night promises. The duo met while working at Larry's in Peckham.
The restaurant takes inspiration from informal Japanese izakyakas - a tapas bar-style spot where people can go for a drink and a snack - by putting seasonal, British-ish produce on a stick and cooking it over a charcoal grill. The food, which has been carefully but creatively curated, is simple and inspired by the flavours Josh and Jack love.
The decor is minimal, with dark walls and wooden paneling contrasting with red chairs and table legs. The restaurant's ethos is clear: it's a place for people to come together, with communal tables, loud music, and low lights creating a lively and fun atmosphere.
The duo ferments a whole array of vegetables in house which are available for retail and wholesale, as well as in the restaurant. You can enjoy kraut and vodka or Ferment Branca for example, before getting stuck in with the sticks.
There really is something for everyone. From chicken and spring onions, pickled onions and pork or sprouts, sesame and pickled chillis, to more daring options such as lamb heart and kidney, or beetroot, daikon and shallots. The exciting combination of eclectic and different flavours goes hand in hand with the array of side dishes that are on offer.
Whether you're in the mood for pig's ears and ox tongue, or Big's Night's signature noodles with greens, early spring kimchi, or pickled mussels, there is plenty to choose from. If you have room, you can also try the miso banoffee or creme tea caramel for dessert.