Notting Hill’s latest burger haunt is inspired by the hot flavours of the Caribbean; here its founder Joshua de Lisser tells us why we should get ready to feel the BOOM
How did BOOM Burger come to be?
I have always loved burgers and so when my foodie side developed I set out on a personal mission to make the best burger I could, and to taste as many different burgers as I could. So it’s taken a lot of making and eating, but I am now really happy with the offer. BOOM started by me cooking for my mates in my back garden, which then moved on to a few pop-ups around London. It’s always been my ambition to set up shop in a proper restaurant, so it’s a bit of a dream come true at the moment!
What inspired you to theme the restaurant around Jamaican food and flavour?
I grew up in Montego Bay and wanted to bring some of those classic Jamaican flavours to London. There’s still not that much Caribbean food around here, which is crazy, because it tastes amazing.
Do you worry about the ‘burger bubble’ bursting in London?
Not really. Everybody loves a burger, don’t they? And ours are a little different from all the rest…
Do you worry about the ‘burger bubble’ bursting in London?
Not really. Everybody loves a burger, don’t they? And ours are a little different from all the rest…
What does BOOM BURGER offer that other burger restaurants don’t?
Loud, Caribbean flavours. Our plantain fries go great with the burgers, and the scotch bonnet mayo packs a decent punch. And you’ve never tried a chicken burger like the Jerk BOOM…
Describe a classic BOOM Burger?
The BOOM Burger is a juicy patty, cooked medium, topped with cheese and finished off with bacon jam.
Describe a classic BOOM Burger?
The BOOM Burger is a juicy patty, cooked medium, topped with cheese and finished off with bacon jam.
What are your favourites from the menu?
Dead heat between the Boom Burger and the Jerk Boom. I can’t separate them. It’s like choosing between your kids!
Why did you choose Portobello Road as your BOOM Burger home?
I’ve lived around here for a good few years, so I know the area really well. The market is always buzzing at the weekend, and that’s the kind of atmosphere we’re hoping to recreate at the restaurant.
Other than BOOM Burger, where do you like to eat in Notting Hill?
I’ve popped into Pizza East a few times. It’s a cool place.
How have things evolved since your pop-up restaurant days?
We’ve got a proper, permanent kitchen, which I still get excited about. When you’ve been cooking all over the place, a steady four walls is a bit of a novelty!
Have you experienced any kitchen disasters so far?
We’ve had a few experiences where tempers have got a bit frayed, but no out and out disasters. Touch wood…
BOOM Burger opens on the 19 February
272 Portobello Road W10 5TY;
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