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Situated by the Millennium Bridge and facing the Tate Modern, the Shard and Shakespeare’s Globe, Northbank is worth visiting for the views of the Thames and the South Bank alone. That the food is great is almost a bonus.
Northbank offers a modern British menu with a nod to owner Christian Butler's Cornish roots. From Dorset crab and Falmouth Bay scallops, to Tregothnan Estate duck and west-country cheeses, the south-western influence is evident throughout.
A starter of pan-fried scallops with confit chicken wings kicked things off beautifully. It’s not a pairing you come across often, but it works; the soft, sweet scallops balanced perfectly with the salty crispiness of the wings.
The mains are where Northbank really shines. Red mullet with roasted Jerusalem artichoke, truffle purée and artichoke crisps is a triumph; delicate, yet full of fascinating flavours and textures. The cauliflower and truffle risotto with parmesan crisps was another highlight; surprisingly light yet ridiculously moreish. A side of cauliflower cheese arrived at the table still bubbling – gums were blistered, but it was worth it.
The desserts don't disappoint, either, with a rum and passion fruit soufflé as light and fluffy as a cloud. The Northbank ‘Viennetta’ with honeycomb, meanwhile, is a nostalgia-pricking treat, executed with elegance.
The cocktails at Northbank deserve a shout out, too, not least because there’s a whole section dedicated to drinks made with Cornish mead. Try the Honey Mead Rise, which teams the sweet brew with vodka, riesling, lemon juice and thyme.
With warm and unhurried service, creative cocktails and refined dishes, Northbank is an ideal spot for both business, pleasure and even – thanks to that view – dinner for one.