This is not actually about the proper, posh restaurant at the front, but about The Graham's Wine Bar at the back. If you're not in the mood for a starched linen, fine diner, but like fine eats, this could be for you.
The Wine Bar is open Tuesday to Thursday from 4pm, Friday to Sunday from 2pm and has a cosy luxe feeling. A pretty chilled place filled with regulars, a mixed crowd and popular with over 30's. I like it for a gossip filled catch up, meet-up, casual meal, or a Saturday aperitif.
Recently given a facelift it's a cosy space opening onto a narrow courtyard, so in Winter there is fireside seating and in Summer you can catch the breeze. A mix of soft furnishings and bar tables keep a casual sophistication.
As expected there are a good selection of wines by the glass and full bar service. Cocktails, 30 beers, cider and single malts can be found on a 20 page drinks list.
Chef Perry Schagen's bar food is a real treat. Well crafted modern mini plate eats with a vaguely Asian feel include treats like pork belly sliders, soft shell crab, mini arancini, oysters, charcuterie, dumplings. One of my favourites are his masterstock cooked chicken ribs. I could eat a bucket of these.
You can even grab a selection of cheeses from the restaurant or more substantial items like steak sandwiches or a particular dish you fancy from the restaurant menu can be requested.The incredible desserts from the restaurant are also available in the wine bar.
My personal tip? We take the opportunity to have a couple of savoury bites from the bar menu, then order a share platter of ALL the desserts. If you lust for pretty, exotic, 5 star, fine dining desserts, you have to do this. read more