Review on The Holborn Dining Room
Des McDonald, the former chef at the Ivy and ex-chief executive of the Caprice Group has followed his successful launch of The Fish & Chip Shop in Islington with The Holborn Dining Room. Set in the elegant Rosewood London Hotel, an imposing Edwardian building originally the headquarters of the Pearl Assurance Company from 1914 to 1989.
Occupying the former East Banking Hall, the capacious all-day venue has interiors created by the acclaimed Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, who has retained the original features of the Belle Époque building whilst adding modern elements. Stunning neo-gothic chandeliers sparkle over original marble flooring, reclaimed oak furnishings, antique mirrors and rich red leather banquettes with tweed detailing set the scene for this atmospheric grand brasserie. Smart oak and copper bars flank either side of the room and during summer months you can relax in the tranquil courtyard or snuggle up in blankets if the weather is chilly.
From the hot counter you might opt for crispy lamb sweetbreads sauce gribiche to start, or the pressed ham hock piccalilli served with sourdough from the cold counter. Main courses usher in Suffolk lamb chops with bubble and squeak or fish lovers might choose smoked haddock with poached egg and mustard sauce. Nostalgia rules when it comes to desserts witness baked rice pudding with blackberry jam or bananas and custard.
Accompanying the menu is a well conceived wine list together with classic cocktails and craft beers. There is also a gin bar showcasing the largest collection in the capital, with 400 different types of gin and 27 types of branded tonics, allowing guest to sample over 14,035 varieties of gin and tonic pairings.
Cuisine
British
Chef
Calum Franklin
Restaurant Opening Times
Breakfast: 7.00am through
Lunch: until
Dinner: 11.30pm (10.30pm Sun)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express