The Blackfriars Pavilion

Wine Bar & Restaurant

242 Blackfriars Road
London SE1 9UF

Tel. Reservations: 0207 928 8689
Fax: 0207 928 4447

This little gem is situated just south of the river, on a little road on the South East corner of Blackfriars Road and Southwark Street. I have been here once before, with colleagues on a business lunch, and quite enjoyed it. This lunch time I had a little time to myself, and could savour what they had to offer. The menu outside had a handful of starters, three or four main courses, desserts and cheese. I had to drive back to Manchester immediately after eating, so I elected to have only the main course. The Pan Fried Fillet of Lamb, on Spring Onion Mash with baby carrots and string beans looked too good to miss, so in I went. Down the stairs to the bar, and there was no trouble finding me a table (it was two pm!). The waitress brought a basket of soft fresh bread, butter, and a dish of olives - these were embelished with herbs and chillies and were excellent as an hors d'ouvre - the piquancy and saltiness really got the juices going. A glass of the house red, and the main course arrived. It was very pleasingly presented - the Lamb had beautiful pink centres, and the carrots and beans added splashes of colour. The gravy was just the right consistency.

As soon as I tried the Lamb, I knew I was in for a treat: it had a wonderful flavour and texture. The Spring Onion Mash was creamy in texture - this being offset by the Spring Onion - all were perfectly complemented by the gravy. I have to admit that I was glad that I didn't let the waitress take away the bread when the main dish arrived, because I resorted to using it to mop up every last bit of gravy.

Finish off with a cafe macchiato - nicely served (and, much better tasting than the coffee I'd had on the previous visit).

Just over £17 without service - the menu clearly states that no service is included, and any gratuities are shared equally amongst the staff.

Thouroughly recommended

Sandro Melkuhn
25th Jan. 2001