The Elgin, London – Review

Geronimo Inns are a company causing a stir on the gastro pub circuit this year. They`re an award winning brand with venues scattered over London, each one with it`s own USP designed to attract those in the local neighbourhood. I visited the recently refurnished Elgin, a short distance from Labroke Grove tube. Packed with a bohemium Notting Hill crowd it perfectly placed as either a casual drinking haunt or a trendy dining destination.

At the front of the building is the main bar area which seats around 30, while their Gin Palace, a smaller featured bar, is separated off by Victorian glass screens. If you choose to sit in there you may as well try one of the 22 specialist gins on offer – the staff are more than happy to advise which one to choose.

Towards the back lies the moderately sized dining room. The shabby chic
`Mix and match` décor creates a relaxed interior, from wooden bookcases, battered armchairs and faded fabrics it`s easy to relax and feel right at home. There was a real warm and buzzy atmosphere when I arrived with a friend on a Friday night – no doubt helped by the charming staff who greet everyone with a friendly smile.

Relaxing with a G&T into a comfy leather chair I found it difficult to choose what to eat – everything looked tempting. The menu is constructed around traditional British pub food was and then given a modern twist following the instruction of their food director Ray Brown (formerly of the Hotel Malmaison and Hotel Du Vin group.) This is definitely a company with pedigree!

Both my dining companion and I chose the salad of rosemary ash, goats cheese, croutons and heritage tomatoes to start. It was a generous serving and the addition of the rosemary ash really brought out the tangy flavours of the goats cheese.

For my main I choose buttered lemon sole with broccoli. The fish melted in the mouth, cooked to the prefect delicate texture. My companion chose the heartier poached smoked haddock, with poached egg and buttered potatoes. Filling and flavoursome- there was nothing left on the plate.

I couldn`t resist their poached pear and vanilla ice cream desert but if you are feeling really naughty I suggest the chocolate pot and short bread. My friend claimed she would never be able to work her way through their generous portion yet somehow she managed it!!

As expected in a decent Gastro pub there is a good selection of wine to choose from, including classic moderns to more unusual discoveries. I tried the Margaret river sauvignon blanc and would highly recommend it if you are opting for fish.

I hope to be back to the Elgin whether for a G&T or bite to eat. A very enjoyable evening out.