Kruk: A Tasty Thai Terrace in Peckham
In the heart of Peckham, nestled under the arches of Peckham Rye station, Kruk emerges as a standout addition to London's thriving Thai food scene. This restaurant, founded by chefs Rob Willcox and Josh Lyons, brings a fresh and fiery take on southeast Asian flavors, drawing from their experiences at renowned spots like Som Saa, Begging Bowl, Farang, and Plaza Khao Gaeng.
Ambiance and Location
Kruk occupies a unique railway arch space that evokes a spruced-up air raid shelter, complete with whitewashed brick walls and a gravel-floored outdoor terrace. Currently quiet, this terrace is expected to buzz with activity come summer, offering a casual, fairy-lit dining experience perfect for both intimate meals and lively gatherings.
Culinary Highlights
The menu at Kruk is a celebration of Thai cuisine with a modern twist. Starters include flawless oysters dressed with green nam jim and kalamansi lime, where the lemongrass and chilli-spiked sauce enhances the briny flavor without overpowering it. Betel leaves wrapped around poached prawns and pink pomello, tossed with toasted peanut and coconut, deliver a nutty and juicy burst that disappears all too quickly.
Main dishes feature fried venison wontons with water chestnut, described as tidy bombs of meaty magic, and tea-smoked bavette slices paired with pomello in a tamarind-dressed salad. Chicken thigh skewers with a slippery cashew and coconut sauce pack a flavorful punch, while a creamy duck phaenang is elevated with green banana and sweet rambutans. Notably, every dish has a vegetarian counterpart, making Kruk a veggie-friendly destination.
Desserts and Drinks
For dessert, the black sticky rice pudding with mango offers a comforting, soupy treat reminiscent of Ambrosia with a Chiang Mai twist. The cocktail menu is equally creative, featuring options like a Pepto Bismol-colored dragon fruit daiquiri and a tamarind side car that tastes like fizzy cola bottles.
Value and Recognition
Kruk has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its great value, offering affordable yet high-quality dining. This recognition underscores its place in London's competitive Thai restaurant landscape, where it joins established favorites like Som Saa and Plaza Khao Gaeng.
Final Thoughts
London already boasts numerous excellent Thai restaurants, but Kruk adds a unique flavor to the mix with its vegetarian-friendly approach and innovative dishes. Whether you're seeking a casual meal or a culinary adventure, this Peckham spot delivers with intoxicating flavors that are spicy enough to excite but not overwhelm.
Time Out Tip: After your meal, take a short stroll to Bar Levan for an after-dinner glass of Tempranillo, making for a perfect evening out in Peckham.
