Blackfriars

Although I didn’t get on brilliantly when visiting Blackfriars’ restaurant shortly after it opened, I have been back to the bar a number of times since for drinks and sometimes snacks. When regular guest quester Freya suggested visiting for lunch, I was very pleased to accept.

We were joined by one of Freya’s colleagues, Philippe, so we were a jolly party of three. Both Philippe and I were labouring under the after effects of a slightly excessive Tuesday night, but the menu of bar food looked likely to address things in good style.

Freya had given the fish burger a big build-up so I followed that steer. I added chips with bearnaise and a little plate of padron peppers to share. Philippe took the same route, while Freya played with the specials board opting for the roasted smoked sweetcorn and nuts and a steak roll.

The very friendly barmaid/waitress was soon bringing dishes. Everything smelled and looked great. We tucked in with considerable relish.

The fish burger lived up to the billing. With beautifully cooked white fish in crisp batter, good tartare sauce and a little greenery all encased in a very good roll, this was fantastic eating.

The sweetcorn dish was first rate, too, with lovely buttery smokiness making for really enjoyable mouthfuls. The chips were really good, too, with the bearnaise excellent.

So overall, I was really pleased with the bar food at Blackfriars. For £6, the fish burger represents excellent value and one of the finest single lunch dishes in the city. Every other element was delivered to a very high standard, too. I look forward to many future visits and would recommend you to make it your business to cross their threshold soon.

Scores
Blythe scores Blackfriars
4.5/5 for food
4/5 for presentation
4/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall 16.5/20

Today’s questers were: Freya, Philippe, Blythe

We ate: fish burger (2), steak roll, chips with bearnaise (2), smoked corn and nuts, padron peppers

We drank: beer, white wine, water

We wore: hangovers (2), stripes

Total bill: c.£30