So I am excited to tell you about a recent experience that I had while dining in one of great places in Shoreditch. I had heard many things about “Lena ” which is located just minutes from the Old Street tube, but this time I thought to try it myself. When arrived we were greeted warmly at the door and shown directly to our table. The atmosphere was clean and open, the natural color palette and the white furniture made the restaurant look very welcoming.
Before the main course, I had sautéed forest mushrooms with quail eggs, a truffle infused dressing and toasted crisp bread. Truffles are one of these delicacies that smell as good as it tastes, and I truly believe that I started enjoying them first with my sense of smell. Their delectable essence drew me to take the first bite, and I was not disappointed. My girlfriend had sliced parma ham with its fresh fig, melon and passion fruit essence. I was not sorry for what I had ordered and was so enthralled with my dish that I forgot completely to ask about hers. I also had a glass of Chianti , a little rasping with plenty more grip than any of the previous reds tasted and she had a Americano cocktail.
For our main course, I had the amazing Pan fried Monkfish. This delectable fish was prepared with a celeriac pure. The side was parma ham wrapped fine beans, tomato and salsa. The salsa included capers, so if you’re not fond of them, beware when you order, my girlfriend is not a fan, but I quite enjoyed the flavor that they lent the salsa. She had the braised Tuscan rabbit. It was served with tiny vegetables that were prepared char-grilled. She exclaimed over the flavor and moistness of the rabbit and vegetables, so I would say she was quite well-pleased.
The grand finale did not disappoint us one bit, we shared the Nacciola . It was served with hazelnut ice-cream and salted caramel. This blend of sweet and salty was the perfect end to a very delightful meal. We had already started discussing who we could bring to discover this new restaurant with us. I typically like to indulge in a coffee with my dessert, but did not at this time. Honestly my pocket book was a little meager tonight. But the chef surprised us with Cafe Affogato. It was an espresso with vanilla ice cream and if ever coffee was to be served as a dessert; this is how it should be. This kind of attention from the chef, or whoever instigated it endeared me to them immediately.
I will definitely be back, and we are making a short list of friends that we would like to introduce to this amazing destination.
Lena | 66 Great Eastern Street, London, EC2A 3JT | 020 7739 5714 | reception@lenarestaurant.com |
