THE GREAT EASTERN FOOD BAR

BEST FOR Tapas-style Asian fare for adventurous eaters. FOOD Expect a variety of Asian ingredients imaginatively combined in tapas-like portions or noodle dishes ideal for sharing. Try a fluffy steamed bun filled with an umami mixture of pickled shiitake mushroom, cucumber and hoisin sauce; crisp and unctuous sashimi tacos with trout ceviche, tangy lemon pickle and sharp wasabi; or crispy fried tabasaki chicken wings with miso mayonnaise. Offset it with a crisp, fresh pile of Thai tangled salad and the hibiscus pana cotta with fresh strawberries and pomegranate compote. DRINKS Sake, soju, Japanese plum wine and kombucha rub shoulders with a cosmopolitan range of beers and a limited but classy collection of wines, as well as refreshing and delicious cordial spritzers such as lime and coriander. SERVICE Peppy and knowledgeable. AMBIENCE Lively and unpretentious with preparation in open view behind a long bar counter. The minimalist décor includes wooden tables and benches. (PC)