If I could design my perfect Friday night, it would consist of small plates, natural sparkling wine, great company and a low-lit, East London atmosphere, tucked away from the buzz of all the other night-lifers. Where else other than the highly Instagramabble, most raved about and every mid-twenty-something-year old’s dream; Oranj. Located in its own pocket, just off Brick Lane on Bacon Street, Oranj has been taking the small plate and natural wine scene by storm. 

This wildly popular spot was founded by the exceptionally talented restaurant designer, Jasper Delamothe, who always dreamt of having his own place and creating “a pub for wine drinkers”. Delamothe plucked Oranj from his hospitality visionary and graced East London with a fresh and exciting culinary experience – something that certainly does not happen too often in this city saturated with dining options. This buzzy Shoreditch spot has ignited a digital natural wine world, with a strong community noticeboard feel, that celebrates the bottles and people who are shaping this fast-growing, low-intervention natural wine movement.

Oranj is more than just a bar, it is a stage for chefs from all around the world to come to showcase their taste portfolios. My senses were lucky enough to be serenaded by the talents of Robert Mendoza (@rawbgold), on the last night of his 3 week residency at the wine bar. Mendoza’s cuisine is inspired by his Mexican heritage, his childhood in California, alongside learning French techniques he’s picked up since living there over the past 8 years. It is safe to say Mendoza knows how to whip up a trophy small plate, which proved ordering almost impossible. This decision was potentially the hardest I had to make that Friday. “Tostada, mussels, smoked aioli and paprika oil? Or Squid Aguachile and herb salad?” After much deliberation, the Cauliflower tempura with tartar sauce and the Roast Pork with mole rojo and kale won my attention and ultimately, stole my heart. True pièce de résistance’s and unforgettable beyond belief. 

Then came the critical decision that could make or break the whole evening; the wine selection. Selecting wine by no means is one of my finest skills, if anything, it intimidates me. However, the lovely family over at Oranj, made this task seamless and most enjoyable. From, of course, an array of Orange, to sparkling, rose, red and white natural wines, I landed on a sparkling Muscat Ottonel, named Les Bulles Petillant Naturel. Three words come to mind when describing this wine; punchy, luscious and unparalleled. Paired with the richness of Mendoza’s dishes, these forces met in the middle and married this heavenly taste sensation. 

To finish, I must praise the atmosphere, which undeniably iced the cake and placed the cherry firmly on top of this whole gastronomic affair. From art-deco, leather upholstered chrome stools to walls celebrated by the infamous works of Babak Ganjei, Oranj’s vibe is truly unmatched. Gazing upon electric riddles by Babak, whilst sipping on an ice-cold, beautifully curated natural fizzy wine and dipping tempura cauliflower in a bountiful garlic sauce, all under glimmering candlelight – my Friday went from “good” to “good God, pinch me!” 

With an exciting lineup of resident chefs always at the forefront of the minds behind Oranj, be sure to experience the next guest with a taste of Naples by the talents of Chef Francesco Sarvonio. Expect fresh pasta, vegan ragu and saffron risotto fritters. To pair, artist Frida Wannerberger, will be exhibiting her powerful art. Specifically her latest body of work, LOVE POTION nv, which expresses Frida’s musings on femininity, featuring an oil and acrylic canvas painting titled “I’m having sex with you in my head”. 

Bravo to Oranj and everything it stands for, a must-visit location for those seeking an intimate dining experience, fantastic ethical wine and small plates that will imprint on your taste memory until the end of time. 

@oranjwine |Oranj.co.uk | Oranj, 14 Bacon Street, London E1 6LF |
Book here | Open 5pm – 11pm Wednesday – Saturday