The Bull Steak Expert

Restaurants

Restaurants and cafés

54 Red Lion Street

Mid-range

Alys Tomlinson

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Time Out says

Fri May 4 2012

The ‘Steak Expert’ bit is presumably to avoid any confusion with the dozens of pubs called ‘The Bull’. And this Argentinian restaurant ain’t full of it: the South American steak here is expertly cooked on a custom grill.

We tried the rump, which arrived rare as requested, the outside nicely browned yet the interior tender; the meat was full flavoured and well seasoned. Order steak, and that’s all you’ll get. The golden-hued, crisp chips are listed as a side dish, as is the chimichurri sauce (similar to salsa verde).

A steak burger was similarly spartan: no bun, just a patty of moist beef, though this dish did at least come with chips on the side and a slice of cheese on top. The menu’s brief, the grilled meats being the main draw. But other Argentinian specialities are also done well. The empanadas had crisp pastry encasing well-spiced minced beef, or sweetcorn centres that really were sweet. Sweetcorn is also pounded and wrapped in corn husk and grilled to give a surprisingly light side dish. Desserts include the Argentinian version of crème caramel, called flan.

Some other Argentinian restaurants in London have a cult following, are packed to the rafters, have surprisingly high prices (especially for the wines) and will only accept bookings – or even answer the phone – before 5pm. Not so here. The Bull is a simply decorated place, lacks pretensions and was refreshingly quiet on our visit, with solicitous and prompt service.

The Gotan Project soundtrack and simple colour scheme of blood red and black only subtly suggest Argentina; there are no landscapes of the Pampas, and you don’t have a gaucho’s bolas thrust in your face here. But the straightforward cooking is done very well, and as a dining experience it felt relaxed and convivial.

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Address:
The Bull Steak Expert 54 Red Lion Street
London
WC1R 4PD

Phone:
020 7242 0708
Website:
www.thebullsteakexpert.com
Opening hours:
Lunch served noon-3pm Mon-Fri. Dinner served 5.30-10pm Mon-Fri; 5.30-10.30pm Sat
Transport:
Tube: Holborn tube
Price:
Main courses £16-£38. Set meal £27 3 courses. Meal for two with drinks and service: around £75.
Map
1. The Bull Steak Expert
  - 54 Red Lion Street
    London
    WC1R 4PD
  - 020 7242 0708
  - www.thebullsteakexpert.com
  - 51.519244,-0.117260

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Food and drink

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Comments & ratings

(8 ratings)

At first I was a little taken back when my hotel's concerige insisted that I go to The Bull when I asked for "the best London has to offer". I told him that I travel 80% of the year and eat at what's considered the best that any city has to offer; with the Michelin Star book as my guide most times (thank goodness for expense accounts). He looked straight into my eyes, and bet his job on the line, and assured me that I will be blown away by the quality of food, atmosphere and service. With such passion in his recommendation I went. Steak was incredibly juicy, flavorable and prepared with passion. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly. The restaurant itself was small and yet, comfortable. None of the huge buzzling over decorated feel you get from the more mainstream/over-priced A-lister venues. I love steaks... but never had my eyes been so wide opened to such level of mouth watering pleasures. Definitely the best steak I've ever had anywhere. Sadly, I now find myself comparing all my steakhouse experiences (including M.Starred ones) to The Bull and am sorely disappointed everytime. Well done Bull! This is a must visit for a fantastic dining experience for any occassion. Awesome quality! 20 out of 10!

Michael Wed Mar 13
Rated as: 5/5
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Brilliant on all accounts. Superb food,service and environment!

Anthony P. Tue Oct 16 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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This was best dinner in my life. I'm well travelled and I'm often out for dinner or lunch. I love steaks, so this what has the highest rotation in my diet ;-) (not the healthy I know). The Steak was unbelievable good...juicy, full of beef flavour...just perfect...the chips is just a easy side...but never had a easy meal such stunning...the wine killed me...so balanced just the dot on the I...;-)...the Argentinian sides also are a super-great alternative and experience.. BTW. the service was supersmart, soo friendly and had great knowledge, altogether a perfect orchestra of hospitality.. in summary: if you like good food...steaks and wine...go there asap...if not you will really miss the food experience of your live!!!

Paul Sun Jul 29 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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Phenomenal!!!

Kate Wed Jun 6 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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Possibly the best steak I have had in london. Great wine list, enthusiastic knowledgable waiting staff, and most importantly fantastic meat cooked to perfection. I reckon people will be queueing up round the corner when word gets out about this place.

Mam-cross -fairy Fri Jun 1 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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The best steak I have had in London (and I have had many): Great wine list, fantastic service.

Bibio123 Fri May 25 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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This is the perfect restaurant for a lunchtime business meeting or an intimate evening dinner. The decor is elegant and sophisticated and the food surpasses Hawksmoor for quality and price. Definitely the best steak I have had in London and wonderful service too.

Dan Warner Wed May 23 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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This restaurant is fantastic. I was never really a steak eater before, but the Rib Eye was like nothing I've ever tasted. The enthusiasm with which each dish was served and the knowledge of their produce and wine, is what made my experience at this restaurant so special. 10/10 -superb

David Mon May 7 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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