Blues Bar and Bistro

Blues Bar and Bistro

42/43 Dean Street
Soho
London
W1V 5AP
Tel: 0207 494 1966

Wed 31 Jan 2001

Third day of my week-long course in London, and I'm feeling jaded. I need an evening meal different to the ones I've had for the last couple of nights. I walk from Euston towards Soho, down Charlotte Street. I've either already eaten at most of the establishments there, or I don't fancy the particular style tonight ( for instance Greek or Indian).

I carry on past Oxford road and down Dean Street. None of the eateries really capture my imagination until I spot the Blues Bar and Bistro.

First off, it looks busy without being packed. Second the decor is, er, "conducive". Third, the menu looks interesting. In I go, and they have no trouble finding me a table. I always feel a little self conscious eating alone, but the smiles from the staff put me at my ease.

The House salad (I selected the option of seared Tuna over the Grilled Chicken accompaniment) arrived after I had eaten the (pretty good) piece of bread, and made a start into the bottle of Bergsig Cabernet/Merlot. It was rather good - in fact it was very good, and it should have been enough for me!. However, I made the supreme sacrifice and carried on with the main course - Roast breast of Duck. This was served on a bed of rice, with slivers or lattice-cut potato. Again, the dish was excellent - not a crumb was left. The Duck was nicely seared on the outside, and pink on the inside. Just enough skin and fat to make it interesting, and the gravy was delicious. A Cafe macchiato to finish - and this was one of the best coffees I've had in years - including my own!

1 Bottle Red
1 Tuna Salad
1 Roast Duck
1 Espresso
£34.20 not inculding tip

Verdict: A real boost to my spirits after a couple of less than brilliant meals this week. I will definitely return. The experience was enhanced by the bearing of all the staff I encountered - they were all visibly efficient, and were all generous with their smiles. Well Done!

Sandro Melkuhn