Corner Room, London

April 16, 2013

In a corner of an ultra hip hotel somewhere in East London is hiding a treasure of culinary prowess so brilliant I still feel astounded by the discovery. Aptly named the Corner Room, the little-known sister restaurant to acclaimed Michelin-starred Viajante packs so much behind its tucked away location and informal ambiance that anyone would find the trek to Bethnal Green anything but a nuisance for a chance to eat in the diminutive space.

The beautifully renovated Edwardian building makes for a stunning entrance and the walk up to the first floor where the restaurant is waiting offers ample opportunity to soak up the old town hall’s refined decor, a mix of glamour with marble floors, wood panels and vintage and modern art pieces. The restaurant itself is a simple and warm room, adorned with a modern industrial decor mixed with vintage furniture – very light feel to give place to what really strikes here i.e. the food!

This is where the Corner Room truly unleashes its magic – not only is every dish on the short menu a true work of art since it comes from the same kitchen as its sister’s fine dining downstairs (and the culinary genius that is chef Nuno Mendes) but also a ridiculous bargain for such creative and flawlessly executed combinations. Most dishes are below the £13 mark (just unreal) and a killer deal is to be had for lunch with their 3 courses menu for a mere £23.

Another great reason to go for lunch is that it’s the only time the restaurant accepts reservations – yes, just as with every hot eatery in town you’ll have to wait in the evenings to snag one of the rare seats. Just about everything we had was mind blowing and to think that we saved our wallets from a costly and long tasting menu at Viajante downstairs for what really felt like a Michelin meal is the greatest feeling for any food lover out there. Go…now!

Sea bass ceviche, tangerine & carrot

Aged pumpkin with port, stracchiatella & sage

Hanger steak, swede with mustard & ricotta

Iberico pork with winter relish & sourdough

Iberico pork for those who don’t know is simply marvelous… it has to be served rare as a good steak would, something I had never seen with pork, and it truly has an amazing, butter-like taste. A must order on the menu for sure.