BERNERS TAVERN
Housed at the super chic London Edition hotel, Berners Tavern, an understatedly self-described “modern British restaurant” opened its massive bronze doors in 2013 for those with a “Rock Me Amadeus” appetite, or for the experience. Out came the champagne cart—Ruinart, please, and a 2009 Dom Pérignon Brut for the birthday boy—while we perused the menu that didn’t fall short of every deadly sin. We’re talking creamy carbs, yolky sauces, infused butters, crispy bits on just about everything. I started with the Aged Buccleuch Estate Beef Tartare served with a runny egg yolk jam, a meaty prelude cut down with the pickles. Produce are proudly British, taken five rich notches up, Atherton-style, balanced with fresh zest. For mains, the Buccleuch Estate chateaubriand for two was in for the win; the smoked bone marrow butter sold it. This came with sides of dreams: crispy, oozy mac and cheese and the fattest triple fried chips. Was there even room for dessert? Why not, the “Flaming” Alaska of raspberry and yoghurt, with pistachio shortbread crumble, and a birthday candle, as the perfect excuse to indulge. Berners Tavern, 10 Berners Street, London, UK. Tel: +44 20 7908 7979. www.bernerstavern.com