Redhook

Today I decided to check out the Redhook near Farringdon station. Now, while sipping at my cocktail, I read some reviews of this place. Well, I cannot complain about the service and the food was delicious.

Quickly after I ordered, I got some tasty bread. As I really like bread, that’s always a good start. I even was offered more even better bread later on.

The red Delicato 2009 (Zinfandel) was a great choice. As main I had a fillet steak with peppercorn sauce, and I quite liked it. I ordered chips as a side, and they were chunky and crispy on the outside and soft but not raw inside.

The dark chocolate mousse I had for dessert was another highlight.

But not only the food and drinks are good, I think the interior is also nice. Convenient lighting, comfy seating, music is okay and really attentive and professional service staff.

After all, I will definitely return to the Redhook – despite it looks like I didn’t get the free cocktail they announced on Twitter while I was there. I had ordered mine anyway before I’ve read their tweet…

I really like this place, it has a lovely clubby, New Yorky feel and the service is super friendly. When we went I had the squid with salsa to start which was fabulously tender and succulent, unlike some squid that I’ve had in the past. My brother had the smoked mackeral rilletes which he found a bit salty. We then shared a whole sea bream which was perfectly cooked and delicious even without it’s accompanying ginger and chili sauce. To finish we had the apricot and almond tart which had lovely buttery pastry and roasted figs and marscapone which I didn’t like quite as much as the figs weren’t that sweet. But I love the whole vibe of this place and I would definately recommend it!

I like this place. It's not perfect, but I always find myself returning. The atmosphere is nice-- ambient music in the background, good lighting, comfortable furnishings, and a glass wall in the dining room which looks out on some trees. It definitely lends itself to a long dinners and good conversation.

I always like how they leave a pitcher of the cucumber and lemon water at every table, no need to pay for bottled water and no need to ask for refills. Totally refreshing. Plus the whole milk & honey cocktail menu is at your disposal.

The service is hit or miss. A few times I have been, the service was great-- other times the wait staff are no where to be found.

I typically go for the large portion of the giant prawns, which include 6 genuinely "giant" and very juicy prawns-- perfect really. Prawns + big chips + glass of sparkling is my idea of a nice meal there. The lobster however is a waste of time, not good value for money and not particularly meaty.

Passing Meantime off as 'Redhook beer' for £3.50 with the added insult of it being only 2/3 of as pint! Wine list was though well thought out.

Okay. If you're gonna open a fancy schmancy restaurant with fancy schmancy prices in Clerkenwell, ya better know what you're doing. I don't think the folks behind this steak and seafood restaurant (the same folks behind Milk & Honey, Giant Robot and the The East Room) do. It's a shame. I suppose Redhook is okay but with St John, Portal, Modern Pantry, Hix, etc etc etc all nearby, this newbie just doesn't cut the mustard.

Despite large portions and a delectably perusable menu, prices seem too high and quality is somewhat lacklustre. The steak are okay, I suppose. But, I know better beef may be had in London at equal or less expensive.
There are elements that I like. If you find yourself there and the king crab legs are on the menu – get 'em. They're gorgeous. And I should note that Redhook's American-centric wine list is pretty fab. With its cushy seats and divine lighting, it's a pleasant enough place to pop in for a drink.