Review on The Neptune
Overlooking Russell Square in Bloomsbury, the Principal London a Grade II listed landmark building with a striking terracotta exterior re-opened in April 2018, after undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment. At the heart of the hotel is The Neptune, named after the Roman sea god, it's the brainchild of chef Brett Redman and partner Margaret Crow, the team behind the now closed Richmond in Hackney.
A beautifully orchestrated high-ceilinged room, designed by Tara Bernerd & Partners and Russell Sage Studio in hues of coral pink, it features a central pewter-topped oyster bar with rattan-backed high stools. Walls are lined with paintings from George Ruoy and tables with art-deco banquettes are set around tall marble columns.
Given the piscatorial name, it's no surprise that seafood is the name of the game, with towering seafood platters consisting of langoustines, oysters, mackerel, escabeche, crab, cockles and crayfish very much in demand. Elsewhere there's Sea bass crudo, cucumber and elderflower amongst the starters with beef tartare, sunflower seeds and courgette for those who prefer meat. Main courses usher in lobster, ginger and white pepper butter or lamb, borlotti beans, anchovy and smoked tomatoes. Completing the picture are desserts like gooseberry mille-feuille or a baked cheese and strawberries.
Isabelle Legeron has curated a a dynamic low-intervention wine list from small producers and the cocktail list has been designed to complement seafood.
Cuisine
Seafood
Chef
Brett Redman
Restaurant Opening Times
Breakfast: 7.00 - 10.30am (7.30 - 11.00am Sat & Sun)
Lunch: 12.00 - 3.00pm Fri-Sun
Dinner: 5.00 - 10.00pm Mon-Sat
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express