In the vibrant metropolis of London, chef Rahel Stephanie has become a notable figure in the city’s diverse food scene. Born in Indonesia and raised in Singapore, Stephanie moved to London in 2013 to study fashion. Initially disappointed by the lack of Indonesian cuisine options, she began hosting dinner parties for friends, serving traditional dishes like nasi campur as well as her own innovative creations. These gatherings eventually evolved into Spoons, an Indonesian supper club that has since expanded into culinary residencies and pop-up events at prestigious London eateries. Beyond cooking, Stephanie explores the lesser-known corners of the city, uncovering hidden gems like mom-and-pop shops and avant-garde music venues.
A Journey Through London's Hidden Gems and Flavorful Eats
In the autumn of 2013, when Rahel Stephanie first arrived in London to pursue her studies in fashion, she was struck by the city’s cultural diversity but found it lacking in authentic Indonesian flavors. Determined to recreate the tastes of home, she started organizing intimate dinner parties for her friends, introducing them to dishes from her childhood. Her passion for cooking soon blossomed, leading to the creation of Spoons, an Indonesian supper club launched in 2019. Since then, Spoons has made its mark on London’s culinary map, collaborating with renowned restaurants such as Orasay in Notting Hill and The Sea, The Sea in Chelsea.
Beyond the kitchen, Stephanie enjoys exploring the off-the-beaten-path areas of London. She frequents places like Hector’s, a charming bar and wine shop, and seeks out family-owned establishments that preserve the city’s cultural heritage. One of her favorite dining spots is Singburi, a Thai restaurant run by a family trio, where she savors the authentic flavors. She also loves Viet Rest, a humble Vietnamese eatery in southeast London, known for its comforting vermicelli fish soup and lemongrass chicken. For a taste of modern culinary innovation, Stephanie visits The Standard near King’s Cross, which hosts dynamic events featuring emerging chefs from South Asia.
When it comes to culture, Stephanie gravitates toward unconventional spaces. She finds solace at Atlas Cinema, an experimental venue nestled in a disused railway arch near Brixton, where the community curates unique film series. For music, she heads to Cafe OTO, a cozy coffee shop on Ashwin Street that doubles as a platform for up-and-coming artists. Here, she immerses herself in dreamy, experimental sounds from musicians like Danish composer ML Buch.
From a journalist’s perspective, Rahel Stephanie’s story highlights the importance of preserving cultural identity through food and art. Her journey from a student missing home-cooked meals to a celebrated chef who champions underrepresented voices serves as an inspiration to many. It reminds us that true culture thrives not just in grand institutions but in the small, personal moments shared between people. London’s richness lies in its ability to embrace diversity and foster creativity, and Stephanie’s work exemplifies this spirit.