26 Grains, London

"Hygge" is danish word and although if does not have a direct English translation it stands for warmth, coziness and comfort. I learned this from browsing though Tessa’s cookbook the other day, while getting lunch at 26 Grains in Neal’s Yard. Inspired by the cuisine and culture of Copenhagen, 26 Grains brings health and comfort foods together in the coziness of ways.

Like most entrepreneurial ventures 26 Grains started out small. It began with a porridge stall on London’s Old street and over time expanded into the warm cafe in Neil’s Yard that it is today. They offer a perfect selection for a London winter. Warm chai, matcha and turmeric lattes and stews, soups, vegetable bowls and porridge, and as the name implies wondrous understanding on the health benefits and flavors of different grains. The menu changes with the seasons, working with ingredients that are in season at the time and allowing for the fullest flavors.

I always thought of porridge as a boring food, but 26 Grains changed that for me completely. The porridge that they served was a warm blend of seeds, spices and turmeric, topped with coconut cream and sliced pear. We also got a delicious white bean and kale soup, a perfect remedy for the cold weather.

The second factor that stands out about 26 Grains is the atmosphere. The founder Tessa found inspiration during her time in Denmark. This gave her an understanding of grains as well as an equally important appreciation for atmosphere. The small cafe is filled with warm wooden tables, soft white washed walls, small vases of fresh flowers, and twinkling candles. When we go out to eat we are paying for more than just food, we are paying for an experience. We go with people we care about and share not just a meal but a conversation and a memory. A place like this stands out because the combination of good food and atmosphere will make you remember the experience.