With fresh fish from Billingsgate and stand-out service too, it’s worth planning a trip to the heart of the city to discover fine dining in delicious surroundings at Chamberlain’s Restaurant, says Vicky Smith
There are few places more impressive in the City than Leadenhall Market, yet it’s managed to resist the influx of tourists, despite its location slap-bang in the middle of some of London’s most recognisable landmarks, such as the Gherkin and Monument. Venture to this vibrant destination (that’s been in operation as a market since the 14th century) to discover some beautiful architecture and, more importantly, one of our favourite new foodie finds.
Nestled under the market’s elegant, gilded Victorian roof is Chamberlain’s restaurant, a smart yet cosy place that’s been welcoming City types since it opened in 2001. There is, however, much more on offer at this lovely spot than lengthy business lunches, and the exceptional service and outstanding food make planning a trip to the centre of the city even more appealing.
The restaurant’s parent company Chamberlain and Thelwell is a wholesale fish business based at Billingsgate, so as you’d expect, fish and seafood are big news here. Executive chef Andrew Jones uses his experience garnered in the kitchens of Claridge’s and The Westbury to create dishes that tread the fine line between classical and inventive, using the best British produce he can get his hands on. As we discovered on a recent visit, Andrew’s new tasting menu is a great way to sample some of the highlights.
Cepes galette was a light and welcome start, the earthy mushrooms layered delicately on top of crispy puff pastry. Sauteed fois gras followed, and was a pretty plateful featuring lively accompaniments of pineapple chutney and spiced bread. Course three brought the opportunity to sample some of the seafood for which Chamberlain’s is famed, and we couldn’t have been happier with the delicate paupiette of lemon sole, filled with the lightest crab mousse and surrounded by crab cream. Roasted fillet steak was a delicious indulgence, and by the time the dessert of crème caramel arrived, it’s fair to say we felt as though we’d had several meals in one sitting. Despite this fact, we left hungry for more, and will be returning for the Chamberlain’s signature cod and chips with mushy peas – it would be rude not too.
Tasting menu, £49.50/£85 with matching wines. 23-25 Leadenhall Market, EC3V 1LR; 020 7648 8690; chamberlainsoflondon.com
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