BLACK ROE

Vibe & Decor

Mayfair, Mayfair, Mayfair: think low lighting, dark hues, and a sultry atmosphere. This is not a restaurant for the sneaker clad – but rather, the suited and booted after-work Mayfairers, first dates, and well, Hakassan and Nobu types – and it’s no surprise why, it’s owned by the same people behind the buzzy but well-heeled Chotto Matte in Soho.

Flavours

Pacific rim freshness. The poke here veers off the traditional path (ahi tuna, seaweed and rice combo) and comes in all manner of mixes. Think fish with kelp noodles, kale and fruit – case in point: Black Roe Poke Bar and Grill. Here it’s all about sharing. Navigate through the eight-strong poke list (we suggest getting the sampling platter), before moving to the appetisers without missing the standout grilled scallops with mango quinoa. As far as mains go (all served from the wood grill), the lamb rack with coconut, piquillo reduction was served bloody rare and the cajun blackened seabass with pineapple salsa, was smoky, a little bit sweet and fresh. Dessert wise, we tried the shake and bake (aka a freakshake), we weren’t sure about this – points for instagrammability – but we say, stick to the fresher options like yuzu sorbet, which was light and fresh.

Top Tip

Yes, there are a few meat options on the menu, but this restaurant’s USP is fresh seafood, combined with different variations of fresh salsas. Stick to that. Rack of lamb can be bought anywhere.

Highlight

A 101 in poke.