SMOKESTAK - SHOREDITCH
By Beatrice Morandi
Blackcurrant Negroni & Grilled Padron Peppers
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Shoreditch, Smokestak is a hidden gem that contrasts its industrial façade with a warm, inviting atmosphere. This restaurant is a must-visit for any meat lover, offering a unique blend of casual elegance and rustic charm. The interior, characterized by wooden accents and a creative decor that gives nods to film aesthetics reminiscent of "Trainspotting," draws you into a larger narrative unfolding within its walls.
Despite its prime location in trendy Shoreditch, Smokestak offers surprisingly reasonable prices, making it accessible for a variety of budgets. The menu is designed for sharing, promoting a communal dining experience, and it even includes tempting vegetarian options to cater to diverse palates.
On a recent Wednesday evening, we indulged in an array of starters that kicked off our meal with excitement. We savored the grill-padron peppers, which were perfectly charred and seasoned, alongside the remarkably crispy ox cheek served with a delightful anchovy mayo. The confit burnt end taco paired with tomatillo salsa was a standout, bursting with flavor and rich textures. To complement our starters, we enjoyed a fabulous blackcurrant negroni, whose tartness and depth elevated our dining experience.
For the main course, we chose the charred pork belly rib, which was expertly cooked to perfection, tender and infused with a smoky richness. It was artfully presented with pickled cucumber and raw broccoli, adding a refreshing crunch that balanced the dish beautifully.
Faboulous Taco, the pickled onions were a
stand-out!
The ambiance at Smokestak exudes a genuine feeling of London life, providing a glimpse into the city's vibrant culinary scene. However, one minor drawback was the proximity of the tables; we found ourselves quite close to neighboring diners, making it easy to overhear their conversations. Nevertheless, the attentive service we received, even on a bustling night, showcased the staff's dedication to customer satisfaction and their attention to detail.
Overall, Smokestak comes highly recommended for anyone exploring East London—it’s an experience that beautifully combines flavorful food with the essence of London’s lively dining culture!
monday - thursday | 1200 - 1500 / 1730 - 2300
friday | 1200 - 1500 / 1700 - 2300
saturday | 1200 - 2300
sunday | 1200 - 2200
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