Modern Twist on British Classics
Alright, so I was on the lookout for somewhere not too fancy, but still cozy, for an evening. Well, I stumbled upon The Garrison, nestled right in the heart of Bermondsay, and it was like being enveloped in a big, warm hug.
While I wouldn’t say it knocked my socks off in terms of taste quality, The Garrison still managed to give me a pretty decent dining experience.
Ambiance:
The Garrison nailed that gastro pub atmosphere we all know and love with their lovely green theme.
If you’re in the mood for a laid-back evening with heartwarming British grub but with a bit of a modern twist, this place might just hit the spot.
Service:
I felt I was having my very own personal cheer squad to celebrate my friend’s birthday, but instead of pom-poms, they’ve got champagne and an amazing dessert.
They’re not just knowledgeable and friendly, they’re also oh-so-attentive. Need a reason to celebrate? They’ve got you covered. Curious about the chef’s special? Just give them a nod, and they’ll fill you in.
Price: ££
While the starter might leave you wanting a bit more, fear not, because the mains here are as generous as they come.
As for sophistication in taste, well, it might not hit all the high notes, but the stellar service more than makes up for it. So the price is what you’d expect for a night out in London, nothing too extravagant.
The kicker is a dessert. It’s big, it’s beautiful, and it’s worth every penny. So, if you’re looking to end your meal on a high note, you won’t be disappointed.
What I Ordered:
Homemade Focaccia, Arbequina Olive
The olive oil was fresh. But, the focaccia. Dry as the Sahara desert. If it’s handmade, well, it might be time for a refresher course in the art of bread-making.
Prussia Cove Mackerel
Mackerel was fresh no doubt. But I want to give credit to the supporting cast of flavors.
First up, we’ve got the creamy avocado. Smooth, luxurious, it provided the perfect contrast to the briny goodness of the mackerel. Then there’s the blood orange – vibrant, zesty, it added a pop of freshness that cut through the richness of the fish. And let’s not forget about that dollop of creme fraiche. Creamy, tangy, it brought everything together in perfect harmony.
Roast Chicken and Champagne Pie
As the pie made its grand entrance at my table, the aroma alone was like a siren call to me. Breaking through that delicate, beautiful golden crust was pure bliss, revealing a filling that was nothing short of extraordinary. Tender pieces of roast chicken emerged from the pie, mingling with a rich and velvety champagne-infused sauce.
With each mouthful, I was transported to a realm of comfort and indulgence. The buttery pastry provided the perfect foundation for the luscious filling.
Confit Hispi Cabbage, Romesco, Chimichurri
One thing that really caught my attention about the dish was those beautifully burnt crispy greens on top. They added a succulent crunchiness that was just divine.
However, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this dish was missing a bit of complexity. While I could certainly taste the rich and nutty undertones of the Romesco sauce, I found myself questioning whether the chimichurri truly complemented the sauce.
*Pavlova
A Pavlova extravaganza that left me floating on cloud nine… Its presentation was so charming, resembling a miniature version of a whole short cream cake!
The meringue had this satisfying crunch, providing the perfect foundation for a medley of toppings. The juicy strawberries and fresh mint leaves added a burst of natural freshness, perfectly contrasting with the lightness of the meringue.
But let’s talk about the real showstopper: the whipped cream. Irresistibly creamy, it elevated every bite to new heights of indulgence, enveloping the palate in sheer luxury.
And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, The Garrison went above and beyond with a drizzle of tangy passionfruit sauce. Its bright, tropical flavor cut through the sweetness, leaving a tantalizing finish that lingered on the palate.
Conclusion:
So my verdict? Dining at The Garrison was a delightful experience that seamlessly blended the charm of a traditional British pub with the innovation of modern flavor.
While some dishes may have had room for improvement in terms of taste complexity, the overall atmosphere, attentive service, and standout dessert made for a memorable evening.
With its cozy ambiance and friendly staff, The Garrison can be a visit destination for anyone seeking a comforting celebration place in the heart of London.
Sample Menue is available: https://thegarrison.co.uk/menus/
