Limin South Bank

You’ll often see it said that Limin is a slice of the Caribbean transported to London’s South Bank, but this is not just a catchy tagline - it really does sum the charm of this escapist paradise. Even in winter when, it must be said, Limin is not at full sun-baked tropical power, the restaurant still has a cosy, welcoming atmosphere inside, courtesy of punchy rum cocktails, heaters whacked up to 11 and ever-present host, chef and raconteur Sham Mahabir, who bounces between tables entertaining visitors.

Mahabir’s Duracell-esque energy is a big part of what keeps Limin thrumming all throughout the year, but it wouldn’t stand on that alone. Another cornerstone of this beloved South Bank hangout is the menu, which delivers big on flavour and portion sizes. Trini classics are a great starting point. There are doubles, for example, which consist of spiced chickpea curry on a fried flatbread. Sham’s come with mango jam, hot sauce and a good lick of tamarind too. The flatbread is so soft it’s a mission just to get it from plate to mouth, but the rewards for doing so are great - spicy, sweet, salty with the fruity tang of tamarind.

Another bread steals the show in Limin’s Trini curry goat - the goat itself is richly spiced and well seasoned, but the flaky paratha underneath is absolutely delicious. Half a fried chicken arrives doused in a piquant sauce of Chinese five spice and soy sauce - so often chicken breast is dry and mealy but this one is juicy and delicious. Limin’s location on the South Bank could be mistaken as a bit tourist trap-ish but the cooking is anything but. That’s before we get to the brilliant cocktail offering - when the sun is blazing, Limin’s big open terrace the perfect place to sink a load of SHAMgrias, or Limin Rum Punches.

Granted, the decor is a little bit bare and the room itself could use a bit of a spruce, but Limin’s energy bridges the gap, and the solid food and drink offering makes this one of our favourite South Bank haunts.

Limin is a restaurant and events space that brings the spirit of the Caribbean to the South Bank. Serving up vibrant food, tasty cocktails, good vibes and plenty of fun, Limin is a great place to kick back with friends and be transported to warmer climes.  

The restaurant is headed up by chef-owner Sham Mahabir, who was born in Trinidad and Tobago and shares his love for the region through his cooking. There are plenty of nibbles and small plates if you fancy something light to pair with a cocktail, while a number of larger dishes are available for those after something more substantial. Start with a few snacks, such as the Trini Puri - Sham’s take on a traditional Indian pani puri, traditional Trinidadian 'Doubles' or Trini mac and cheese.

As far as mains go, Limin’s Jerk chicken is extremely popular, or you can try the 'Island Fish and Chips', with its Caribbean-spiced battered fish. There are lots of vegan, gluten-free and child-friendly options on the menu, too, as well as Caribbean-inspired desserts.

Meanwhile, over at the bar, Limin's bartenders mixes up a host of fruity cocktails inspired by Caribbean culture. Expect plenty of new ideas and reliable classics, with many of his drinks featuring the bar’s very own Limin Rum! Examples include a Limin Rum Punch made with Limin Rum, mango, guava juice, passion fruit, lime and bitters, or there’s the SHAMgria, named after Limin’s founder and chef, which is a delightful twist on a classic sangria. There is also a line-up of slushies, while shots, wine, beer and a booze-free offering complete the drinks list.