What can you tell me about Boisdale?
The implausibly-named Ranald McDonald’s trio of Scottish themed restaurants have been around for over 20 years, the original opening in Belgravia 1988. The latest and largest of the three, Boisdale, Canary Wharf celebrates the very best of traditional highland cuisine, live jazz music, and boasts a remarkable selection of whiskeys and cigars all in a vast, impressive space.
This lavish 400-cover restaurant leaves no Scottish cliché or convention untouched, from the tartan carpets, and hanging stags heads on the walls right down to the kilt-wearing waiters. Aside from the restaurant, diners can visit the specialist Havana cigar library and private terrace and take a trip to the plush Caviar and Oyster Bar – there is certainly no shortage of activities.
Where is it?
Canary Wharf, inside Cabot Place, overlooking the fountains in the square.
Who is it suitable for?
Owing to location the majority of the crowd is unsurprisingly suited city workers, however the vibe is very laid-back and the atmosphere is buzzy. There are a good mix of demographics with tables of young couples interspersed among larger groups, and some more serious business diners. It’s a pretty much ideal post-work dinner and drinks destination.
Where should we meet for a drink first?
There are low-sunken armchairs in the whisky bar where you could enjoy a quiet and relaxed pre dinner drink however if you want something a little different The Pearson Room is only a stone's throw away. Head here for fabulous cocktails from mixologist Victor Matos in collaboration with the team behind Worship Street Whistling Shop and Purl. If you’re looking for a refreshing aperitif try the Pepquino and Mint Martini.
And where should we sit?
If you want a romantic or quiet dinner request a table by the window that overlooks Cabot Square for the best views across The Thames and the London skyline. If you fancy a livelier spot, a table closer to the jazz band would be a perfect choice for larger groups.
What should we order?
The menu is extensive and prices vary greatly so it all depends on who you're with, what budget you have (and whether you can expense it). We were lucky enough to be there at the right time to sample their special ‘Gull’s eggs & soldiers’ which is only available for a short time in spring. This rare delicacy of scrambled gulls eggs with Sevruga caviar, black truffle tapenade and lemon brioche was intensely rich and luxurious, a real treat. A Hebridean crab and smoked salmon (£19) starter was a lighter, fresher alternative to the eggs but equally delicious. If you’re with a big group who want to share try the Fruit De Mer platters (starting from £30), they looked to be a fabulous celebratory seafood option.
Our waiter recommended the 1kg Porterhouse steak which served two. The grass-fed Aberdeenshire beef was carefully carved at our table and was cooked just as we'd asked. We fancied a little surf and turf, so also opted for half a grilled lobster with chilli and butter (£19) and sides of creamed truffle spinach (£9.50) and thick cut chips (£4.00). A sticky toffee pudding laced with caramel sauce and accompanied by a dollop of Cornish clotted cream (£6.50) finished the feast off.
Their selection of 20+ British cheeses was devilishly tempting and if we were to go back we’d definitely be saving room for some of these.
Is bread included?
Yes, a selection of bread is on offer but don’t fill up on it, the portions are hefty and you’ll want to make it through to dessert.
And what about drinks?
Ask for recommendations from the staff and sommelier who were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. We began with a glass of Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc (£15) and Meursault Vireuils (£22), which complimented our gull’s eggs and seafood perfectly. Following this, we had a glass each of the Marsannay Les Vaudenelles (£15) to accompany the steak and it was possibly the most smooth and silky Burgundy we had ever tasted – simply divine. If you are still standing and fancy a little digestif, there are over 900 single malt whiskys to choose from, with some impressive vintage bottles from defunct distilleries dating back as far back as the 1930’s.
And how much will this set me back?
It would be fair to say that Boisdale isn't a budget spot for dining. However the food is of a very high standard and the most luxurious ingredients are used within their dishes which is reflected in the price. If you're on a more stringent budget the ‘Jacobite Menu’ offering a set two courses is available for a reasonable £19.75 and the A La Carte menu does include some cheaper options too. Choose drinks wisely as very expensive rare whiskys and wines will inevitably push your bill up.
Overall thoughts?
The overall experience at Boisdale was a brilliant one; attentive staff, fabulous food and a great atmosphere – especially when the band started. It was also a nice change to be able to take our time over dinner: we were never at any point rushed. No table turning here, there were leisurely pauses between courses and time to build up an appetite for the next. Our evening took us on a truly Scottish adventure and we would recommend it to anyone who enjoys fine cuisine, a stiff whisky and swinging jazz music.
Boisdale is at Cabot Place, Canary Wharf London, E14 4QT. Find out more about Boisdale
Prices were correct at time of writing. Hot Dinners were invited to eat at Boisdale.
