Nestled in the heart of Clapham, Three Little Birds is a charming bar and restaurant that serves authentic Jamaican sharing plates and cocktails. Set up by ex-Apprentice star and restaurateur April Jackson, the business has become a neighbourhood favourite with two outposts in Clapham and Brixton. We decided to swing by the one closest to home in SW11 to explore the vibrant flavours of Jamaica and dining communal dining experience we had heard so much about, as well as make the most of the £5 cocktails.
Bottoms up! You know we could never turn down a drinks deal.
Happy hour was in full swing when we entered the restaurant, which had already drawn in a small crowd of young professionals. We were greeted by April, our charismatic host for the evening that would later guide us through the menu and give us a small education on Jamaican delicacies. To kick things off, an invigorating Dark and Stormy (£5) with a gentle heat from the ginger, light hint of citrus and sturdy kick of rum, which would soon be followed by a couple of mojitos (£5) to help cleanse the palate along the way.
Then it was time to feast. With a little help from April, we decided to try a few new things, such as the callaloo croquettes (£6), a sweet green vegetable (because Jamaicans don’t f*ck with spinach, apparently) deep-fried and served piping hot with dipping sauce. Alongside these, we gorged on warm avocado bon bons (£5.50) with crispy filo pastry, soft warm avo filling and a fresh kick of chilli.
While it may not be for vegans, meat-eaters must get their chops around the jerk chicken.
The jerk roasted cauliflower (£9) was accompanied by creamy sweet potato, earthy tamarind and a sweet, sticky and spicy glaze, and of course we had fluffy rice and peas (£3.50) on the side. There was also the addition of sweet plantain (£4), described to us as the best in London, fried-up and drizzled in honey. The steady flow of sharing plates and in-depth explanation of each made us feel like April had graciously invited us into her home to showcase her take on Jamaican eating, making it a truly authentic experience.
The DesignMyNight Digest
Offering impeccable hospitality, refreshing cocktails at stellar prices and a menu of mouthwatering sharing plates that are perfect for groups, Three Little Birds really delivers the essence of Jamaican communal dining in the heart of Clapham.
