Oxo Tower Brasserie

Offering stunning views of London’s iconic skyline, Jo Gardner eats at The Oxo Tower

Offering stunning views of London’s iconic skyline, Jo Gardner eats at The Oxo Tower

When you’re about to dine at Oxo Tower, you spend all day praying for a clear evening: the views the best part of this extravagant experience.
That’s not to say the food isn’t something else  – it is; some of the most renowned chefs have calved their career at this eponymous spot celebrating its 15th anniversary this year with over three million diners to date.
As we walked into the Brasserie area, I was amazed at how busy it was for a Wednesday evening. And then I saw that killer view – St Paul’s, the London Eye and the river all twinkling in the night sky – and I could see why.
In the corner, a lady sang to the accompaniment of a soft piano – something that can get annoying in restaurants but Oxo had pitched it perfectly: background music if you’re feeling chatty; someone to watch if you’re in a contemplative mood.
We started our evening with a glass of the Oxo Champagne which we sipped while devouring the wonderful menu. Switching between dishes – both of us unable to make up our minds – I finally opted for a starter of salt and pepper fried soft shell crab served with coconut sauces and paw paw salad, while my partner ordered grilled Saudi squid, Israeli cous cous and za’atar spice. My crab was both light and refreshing with a hint of chilli, while the squid – he enthused - was perfectly cooked.
Ordering a bottle of Australian Shiraz, we moved onto mains: Seabass with pumpkin fritters, bok choy and red curry sauce for me and Harissa spiced lamb rump, olive piquilo soft polenta, chorizo, feta and grilled fennel for him. Triple cooked fat chips, rocket with parmesan and brocolli with almonds soon had our table groaning with food. We fell into a comfortable silence, communicating through satisfied nods until our plates were taken away.
Sated but wanting to try dessert, I couldn’t resist the cheese board, while poached pear with ice-cream and caramel wafer was a lighter option that went well with mint tea.
Despite not being a table free, the waiters did a fantastic job of ensuring we were well looked after, our food arriving comfortably between courses and each one more delicious than expected. A truly unforgettable evening.