CORNER ROOM
As you’ve probably seen here, a couple of weeks ago I had the most amazing Sunday in London. I got up really early, jumped in the tube and arrived at Columbia Flower Market while it was still empty. After a quick stop at Lily Vanilli for breakfast, I spent a few hours shopping, taking pictures and admiring the beautiful flowers before it was time for lunch. Corner Room is a spot I’ve been dying to try (and photograph) for a long long time and am so happy I finally did.
Located on the first floor of the Bethnal Green Town Hall Hotel, Corner Room was initially run as a casual offshoot to Nuno Mendes’s much loved Viajante which has sadly closed in the meantime. The Michelin-starred chef may have moved to Chiltern Firehouse but Corner Room remains. The interior is bright, with lots of wood and a spiral staircase that leads to nowhere, which I find quite intriguing. But perhaps the most known feature of Corner Room is a wall filled with mismatched lampshades dangling from the ceiling that are in fact so pretty, they got their own hashtag on Instagram. A very welcoming space overall that makes you feel relaxed and comfortable.
The menu is not too long with just a few choices per dish that change regularly according to the season and what’s available on the market. I went for the three-course menu and opted for fish as a starter (charred cod, brandade, cucumber, lemon emulsion and ponzu) which was perfectly cooked. My favourite dish by far though was the main (ratte purée, egg yolk, ceps, Roscoff onion and chive oil) – a hearty combination of flavours that made me wish I had more. Speaking of more, keep in mind that portions are on the small side. That was no issue for me though as it meant I could enjoy my dessert too (Eton Mess, basil jelly, English strawberries and elderflower) without feeling too stuffed. The food was beautifully presented and excellent value for money for lunch (2 courses at £19, 3 courses at £23), especially considering the quality and London standards.
All in all, I really enjoyed my lunch at Corner Room and am already looking forward to the next time. It’s a great spot for a date, a lunch meeting with friends or your Instagram buddies. Take your camera with you and enjoy great food in a cosy, intimate setting – what more can you ask from a restaurant really?
| INFO |
| Address: Town Hall Hotel, Patriot Square, E2 9NF London, UK |
| Telephone: +44 20 78710460 |
| Website / Facebook page |
*UPDATE: Unfortunately, Corner Room is now closed.*
