By Lucy McCall
With a motto like “delicious food filled with joy to make your belly happy”, how could I resist digging in to some warming, scrumptious and soul-satisfying food from The Bow Belly on a wintry Thursday lunchtime? After spending my morning slowly turning into an icicle in the SOAS library, I popped over to the Bloomsbury Farmers’ Market in search of a tasty, warming lunch that wouldn’t break the bank.
Several laps of the market later (there’s far too much choice for an indecisive foodie), I was eventually enticed by the rich aroma of shakshuka simmering away at The Bow Belly’s stall. A delicious fusion of poached eggs in a rich tomato and pepper sauce served with potatoes and homemade bread…I didn’t know it before, but this is exactly what I’d been searching for. I opted to add feta (for £1 extra), which added a most satisfying zing. Sitting in the sunshine, I lapped up every last bite in my takeaway box (regrettably made of plastic – sorry eco-warriors!).
The hearty portion was a reasonable £7, fuelling me well for an afternoon of essay-writing. With friendly staff and a plethora of healthy, (and not-so-healthy), options, I would definitely recommend this place! They also serve vegan-friendly mezze boxes of colourful salads, couscous, hummus and roasted veggies, and a delectable selection of cakes and buns for all you sweet tooths out there – you will not be disappointed!
The Bow Belly are Hackney-based, and use local British produce to create their sensational treats which they sell at markets across London. I think many would agree that eating out is extra satisfying when you’re supporting a local, independent business.
This weekly fixture is sure to become a staple of your Thursday lunch breaks! You’ll find the market on Thursdays, 9am-2pm in Torrington Square.
Price: ££
Taste: 8/10
Service: 7/10