Martin Morales is the Founder of Ceviche in Soho and Andina in Shoreditch. He is also the author of the bestselling cookbook Ceviche: Peruvian Kitchen and has his own record label, Tiger’s Milk Records. In March 2015 he will also launch Ceviche Old St.
Tell us about Andina, what did inspire you to start it?
My grandmother Mamita Naty. When I was a child she would send me hampers full of superfood ingredients like quinoa, maca and amaranth and I would cook with those. These now form the basis of our menu alongside new creations using locally sourced ingredients and superfoods from the Andes. With her in mind, we created Andina.
What is unique about the restaurant?
We are the first place to serve Peruvian food from breakfast through to dinner along with superfood smoothies, pressed juices and our own blend of Peruvian coffee. Our Peruvian breakfasts are unique and we’re particularly proud of our Quinoa Porridge with Berries and Purple Maize Honey as well as our Chicharron Sandwich. We also have a Music Room which houses a collection of over 1000 rare vinyl seven inch singles of Peruvian music – from punk, to funk, and chicha to cumbia. Peruvian music and food together in one place!
How do you select the menu for the restaurant?
I always try to focus on one key ingredient that originates from Peru but can be used in an innovative way in the restaurant. For instance we have taken the ‘super-grain’ quinoa and used it to create healthy and delicious dishes such as our signature quinoa burger. We also have a team of chefs who are Peruvian and bring brilliant ideas to the menu.
What is your signature dish that everyone has to try?
Ceviche Andina. I created this last year for the opening of Andina. It’s fresh, healthy and incredibly tasty due to the combination of sea bass, avocado, zesty tiger’s milk with amarillo chilli, crunchy corn and goldenberries.
Why did you choose Shoreditch/East London for the new restaurant?
I used to live and work here so I know the area well. I love the history of Shoreditch; the building Andina is in was built in 1892 and still has most of its beautiful original features; so I feel like we really are a part of it!
What would you say has been the most memorable experience while developing this business?
It’s just great to hear that people love our food, and really appreciate what we are doing here at Andina. I recently received anemail from Chef Nuno Mendes saying he and his wife love our restaurant, when great chefs sing our praises it makes my team and I so happy!
What are your future plans?
I am travelling to the north of Peru next week to investigate new ingredients, dishes and flavours and to see my family. I do this a couple of times a year and always come back with ideas for the menu. This time I will be looking for inspiration for an incredible and unique Christmas menu. Look out for it!
Social Links:
www.martinmorales.co.uk / @MartinCeviche
Twitter – @AndinaLondon
Website – www.andinalondon.com
Instagram – andinalondon
Facebook – AndinaLondon
