The All In One Ultimate Restaurant List Interview: The Orange

This former pub has been transformed into a sleek restaurant with help from executive chef Diego Cardoso, previously at Michelin-starred Murano. The revamp has served it well, and it's a new entry on our top 100 Ultimate Restaurant List at number 49. Here Diego tells us what makes The Orange unique.

What does The Orange do that nowhere else does?
The Orange offers a great mix of tasty food in a no-fuss environment. It really is the perfect neighbourhood place. You can pop in for an afternoon of pints and catching up with friends, or come in for some cracking pizzas, or have proper dinner upstairs with the missus! We even do breakfast.
 
What has your most valuable experience as a chef been?
Travelling and adapting to different cultures and languages. And I have always enjoyed the challenge of opening a restaurant, starting from zero and building a team and a menu.  
 
What food do you regard as a guilty pleasure?
Cheese and charcuterie, I could live on it no probs! The more rustic and artisanal the better. But I like the classic stuff, not too keen on anything flavoured.
 
Which London restaurants have excited you recently?
I really enjoyed The Manor, especially the desserts bar.
 
What food trends do you think there will be in the coming year?
The healthy food trend has started already, and it's only getting stronger and bigger. I can see this becoming a very important focus for restaurants and specially cafes and delis. People are really watching what they eat. And this is good, it only pushes us more as chefs to come up with clever combinations.
 
Which is your signature dish?
We do an amazing juniper and gin cured beef with just that little hint of lemon and lime zest. It’s a beautiful light dish.