Centuries of mastering the art of perfectly cooking large slabs of meat, producing the crispest and fluffiest roast potatoes and smuggling a few suspicious looking greens into the mix have made the humble ‘roast’ the cornerstone of our nation. So by calling itself Roast, this restaurant has really set itself some high standards. However, given that its reservation book has remained busier than a room full of PA’s at a The Oscars, Roast has firmly established itself as a major dining destination since its launch in 2005. As an unexpected bonus, the first floor venue provides impressive views onto the market on one side and over into St Paul’s Cathedral on the other.
Located in Borough Market, Roast has access to what is probably the finest larder in the country, so it’s no surprise that the menu champions the best of Britain’s seasonal produce and cooking traditions. Having visited on numerous occasions since its opening in 2005, the consistently high standard of the food never fails to impress, and with 2012 seeing appointment of new Head Chef Marcus Verberne, the restaurant continues to go from strength to strength.
Key to the menu at Roast is a large spit oven in which everything from free range chickens to suckling pigs are rotated. Somewhat cunningly, the open kitchen is central to the restaurant, so the emerging sights and smells will have you sold into the menu by the time the waitress has walked you to your table! The menu is one of the most tempting around, with starters including everything from Scotch Burford Brown egg to Isle of Mull scallops with samphire and Maldon rock oysters.
Mains include Chargrilled native lobster and chips and Roasted breast of Goosnargh corn-fed duck with a slaw of chicory, apple and golden raisins, as well as a daily changing special; visit on a Saturday and you will be treated a Beef Wellington good enough to tempt the deceased Duke out of his grave – truly one of the finest dishes currently available in any restaurant in London. Puddings keep to the ‘best of British’ theme, with delights such as Sticky date pudding and Pimms jelly.
The drinks menu also stays to the British theme, witha good number of English wines present on the extensive list. Even the cocktail list is based on British seasonal produce and features numerous English spirits. Service is also always discrete yet polished and completes a great British dining experience!
Food: 4/5
Venue: 4/5
Value: 4/5
Cuisine type – British
Dinner for 2 (ex. drinks) – £85
Wine – £6
Cocktails – £11
Roast
The Floral Hall
Stoney Street
London
SE1 1TL
020 7940 1300
www.roast-restaurant.com
