It may be a little invidious picking our five favourites from the restaurants we reviewed last year, particularly as we only had a couple of eating experience at any of those we reviewed which could be described as poor or mediocre – and also with some reviewed in the evenings, some at lunchtimes and some for breakfast, the ambience tends to be different at different times of the day. However we will have a shot – and apologies to those not picked as our favourites – all bar perhaps a couple will have been great choices for a meal out. So do check all our reviews out on the website.
No.1. Angler
Angler’s internal decor is smart and attractive as is the overall ambience
Perhaps the easiest choice – Angler, the fish restaurant situated atop the new South Place hotel about halfway between Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations has definitely been the editor’s favourite. it was awarded a Michelin Star in its first year, deservedly so in our view. To read our latest review click on :
Michelin starred Angler revisited – almost perfection
No. 2 Granger & Co Clerkenwell
Breakfast time at Granger & Co Clerkenwell showing the light and airy interior
Australian chef Bill Granger’s Clerkenwell opening, just off Clerkenwell Green. Relaxed laid-back atmosphere as one might expect from an Aussie run establishment. Australian/European Asian fusion food makes for some very tasty combinations. Read review at:
Aussie/Asian taste experience at Granger & Co
No. 3 HKK
HKK interior
The second Michelin starred restaurant we reviewed last year. This offshoot of the similarly Michelin starred Hakkasan restaurant is located on Worship Street, which used to be a bit of a culinary desert, but now also boasts L’Anima Cafe (also reviewed last year) which is virtually next door. Quite expensive large tasting menus – Chinese food – providing some brilliant flavour combinations.
HKK: A true eating experience
No. 4 Hix Oyster and Chop House
Tucked away on a cul de sac called Greenhill Rents which runs off the top end of Cowcross Street, close to Smithfield Market, Hix Oyster and Chop House was the first restaurant opened by celebrity chef Mark Hix. It is a popular venue close to the Barbican with an emphasis on British produce and cuisine.
Hix Oyster & Chop House – a Smithfield jewel
No. 5 Merchants Tavern
Evening view of The Merchants Tavern
This one’s a little further away from the Barbican being in Charlotte Road between Old Street and Great Eastern Street heading towards Hoxton. It yet another celebrity chef offering, this time the chef being Angela Hartnett, featured recently in Chef’s Corner in Barbican Life magazine and on the website. in collaboration with her chef partner Neil Borthwick who is fulltime at the restaurant. Great decor, ambience and service with Italian/Spanish/French related cuisine with British overtones.
