Nationwide restaurant group Wagamama has secretly opened a new restaurant concept in London, on Fenchurch Street.
The new site is called Mamago and has been billed as “Wagamama's little sister - more upstart, less sit-down”. Although Wagamama itself has become synonymous with casual dining, thanks to communal tables and a no bookings policy, Mamago is an even more casual venture, serving a range of grab and go dishes.
Mamago is open weekdays from 7am through to 6pm, serving breakfast and lunch dishes that are inspired by the flavours of Japan. In the morning, hungry City folk can tuck into the likes of okonomiyaki omelettes, multi-grain coconut porridge topped with brown rice syrup, or a twist on the classic bacon sarnie which sees a pumpkin and turmeric wrap stuffed with bacon and egg.
Come lunchtime, the menu kicks up a gear, serving a mix of wraps, bowls and salads which can all be taken away to enjoy alfresco or al-desko. Highlights from the lunchtime menu include a cherry hoisin duck wrap, but there are plenty of vegetarian options too, including a teriyaki mushroom and avocado salad, and tofu golden laksa.
Mamago is also conscious of the environment, with the restaurant’s packaging being made of 95% card with a starch lining, a material that should be easily recyclable at most London offices. The restaurant is aware of changes in food trends too, with Mamago’s executive chef Steven Mangleshot commenting that “all the dishes have been developed with health in mind.”
The plan is to use the new Fenchurch Street site as a trial run and test kitchen, where Mamago can figure out what dishes are the most popular with diners. The brand will then use this information to roll out the concept across London and possibly the rest of the UK, which means there might one day be as many Mamago’s as there are Wagamama’s on our high streets.
Want to go somewhere a little more upmarket? Check out our pick of the best Japanese restaurants in London.