LONDON
“ Really good British food” and iconic London views, how to make an impact at
THE BUTLER’ S WHARF CHOP HOUSE
BY SAMANTHA READY
HAVING EXPERIENCED THE WONDERS OF NEW STREET GRILL LAST YEAR, IT WAS FAIR TO SAY THAT MY EXPECTATIONS WERE HIGH AS I AMBLED DOWN THE COBBLED STREETS AT THE SIDE OF THE THAMES EN ROUTE TO ANOTHER D & D LONDON RESTAURANT GEM. JUST ONE OF THE EATERIES IN ITS EVER-GROWING, YET REFINED PORTFOLIO, THE RESTAURANTS NOT ONLY PROMISE( AND DELIVER!) GREAT FOOD, GREAT WINE AND GREAT SERVICE, BUT DO SO IN SOME WONDERFULLY RESTORED AND REFURBISHED BUILDINGS.
Situated on the South bank of the river not far from London Bridge, the first thing we noticed when we took our seats at our window-side table for two was the commanding view of the iconic Tower Bridge! In fact, views stretch far down the river across Docklands and are framed by the pretty doors that run the length of the wall and that are, of course, thrown open in the warmer months to offer al fresco dining in an awe-inspiring location.
The restaurant itself, accessed through the bar area or directly from the riverfront, was warm and welcoming, offering just that right mix of intimacy and ambience. Walls were neutrally painted or wood panelled, original warehouse features preserved and all were lit – albeit softly – with industrial copper fittings set off with just a hint of a nautical vibe.
The modern British grill menu, prepared under the watchful eye of head chef Joginder Singh Dham, offers a mouthwatering selection of oysters, seafood starters, fresh fish and contemporary British mains and of course naturally for a chop house, a tempting selection of Josper-cooked Black Angus beef individual cuts and sharing options.
And not forgetting drinks – a heady mix of premium spirits, prime ales and unique cocktails hand in hand with an extensive wine list; and of course a handy and friendly sommelier on hand with expert suggestions to set off the meal.
And so to our starters. The apple and celeriac soup for my guest, a warming thick broth of flavour, and the daily special scallops for me, gloriously seared served upon cauliflower purée, with crisp lardons and samphire.
Dishes devoured, we were more than ready for our mains: the fillet steak with Chop House butter for me, whilst my guest opted for the Chop House burger – the brioche bun heaving with juicy beef, streaky bacon, applewood cheddar and house relish, and they certainly lived up to expectation! The delicious charred exterior and juiciness that the Josper preserves, led to melt-in-the-mouth steak and burger heaven, completed by the hard to resist triplecooked chips and the heaving fresh spring salad sides.
With barely any room left after devouring every last beefy morsel we, of course, persevered to the dessert menu and although initially opting to share the brownie( a stodgy, fudgy slab of dark chocolate warmth), the real winner transpired to be the surprise addition of a sticky toffee pudding with its sweet syrup sauce, soft sponge and clotted cream.
Once again D & D London have delivered.
With a well conceived British grill menu and an impressive yet refined wine list, attentive and professional service, The Butler’ s Wharf Chop House is reassuringly welcoming, and enviously set, a welcome haven for foodies such as ourselves.
The Butler’ s Wharf Chop House 36e Shad Thames London SE1 2YE 020 7403 3403 www. chophouse-restaurant. co. uk
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