Every once in awhile, you know you’re going to be trapped. Trapped by a friend, or colleague or date in one of those very, very long conversations about everything. And you’re going to have to properly listen, because these wicked people will inevitably ask for your opinion at some point in the conversation too. Knowing this, you have two choices: keep postponing knowing that they may eventually trap you in a ‘phone call’, or find a safe space where you can at least enjoy yourself during the long monologues.

The Other Naughty Piglet in Victoria is the ultimate safe space for this situation.

The Other Naughty Piglet is the sister restaurant of Naughty Piglets, an overachieving neighbourhood spot in Brixton, and an Infatuation favorite. Somewhat strangely, they’ve joined forces with Andrew Lloyd Webber here to open a restaurant that sits the top of an aesthetically annoying marble staircase, within his theatre in Victoria.

It’s strange, but it also works. The restaurant itself is a very pleasant space made to host small groups or couples, and everyone seems to be in some sort of deep natter, as the staff operate like friendly ninjas around them. You only seem to see the staff and hear from them when really necessary - like when they walk you through the Biodynamic wine list (actually great, and not annoying as it may sound), and when they take and eventually deliver your order from the menu of creative French sharing plates. The service is actually great - not hovering and all over you like it is at so many other places. In other words, your friend can yap away uninterrupted.

photo credit: Rob Greig

The dishes are all unusual and very tasty - from the little ham croquettes through to the signature XO Linguine with an cured egg yolk, which is like a new take on carbonara that you’ll want another plate of. Most of the food here is unlike anything else you’ve tasted in London - that is, unless you’ve been to their original restaurant.

The Other Naughty Piglet is basically a comfortable wine bar with excellent food, in an area that doesn’t have much of either. Now all you have to do is get yourself through that painful conversation.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Rob Greig

Ham Croquette

Make sure you order these the same time as your drinks. They’re light and creamy on the inside. And ham helps you listen better.

photo credit: Rob Greig

Burrata

Creamy deliciousness, and the olives and tomatoes provide a nice addition to dish.

photo credit: Rob Greig

XO Linguini

Just look at it. We have never quite seen anything like it. It's a new take on carbonara, and your new pasta obsession.

photo credit: Rob Greig

Devon Crab, Peanut & Pickled Cabbage

There’s a lot going on here but the nutty, crunchy and meaty elements work well together, and the surprise added bonus is that it’s actually a light and refreshing dish too.

photo credit: Rob Greig

Beef Rump

This is one of the more hefty dishes on the menu and will give you a 30- second ear break as your companion uses their mouth to chew rather than talk.

photo credit: Rob Greig

Honeycomb, Chocolate Mousse & Salted Caramel

All the words. All the happiness.