Yesterday ‘5 things’ dined at The Brigade Bar & Bistro which is about six minutes walk from London Bridge Station.
The bistro is a social enterprise venture and works closely with Beyond Food. Beyond Food, together with Brigade, works with people who have been at risk of or experienced homelessness to motivate and inspire them to gain meaningful employment via an apprenticeship programme. People that join Brigade are helped into long term employment when they have completed their NVQ level 2 diploma in professional cooking.
Whilst we were at the Brigade we met a chef who had gained his qualification through Brigade and had just landed a job at the The American Grill at The Savoy hotel. He couldn’t have been more pleased.
I don’t think we have been to a more carining restaurant. Stefano the general manager is not only passionate abut helping people that need a chance but also about serving fine fresh food.
Our experience of Brigade was excellent. Downstairs there is an open kitchen which allows the chefs to feel very much whith the diners. The space is modern and slick with side rooms such as the library offering a more private dining experience.
We dined upstairs in the Leadenhall room which is next to the impressive training kitchen. This private room has long full length windows providing excellent light and view outside. Several other rooms are available, some equipped with projector and screen for presentation purposes – perfect for combining your business meeting with fine food.
One
Enjoy main courses such as braised wild duck with red wine or grilled Cornish mackerel. One of our party ordered the grilled lamb which looked excellent.
Braised Wild Duck with Red Wine Fresh Damsons, Spinach and Barley
Grilled Cornish Mackerel Artichokes, Chicory and Sussex Beets
Grilled Lamb Neck Fillet Cutlets Roasted Aubergine and Cinnamon Purée, Feta Crumbs
Two
Enjoy starters such as smoked Norfolk chicken or Partridge salad. We didn’t sample the starters but next time!
Three
The cheese selection as a dessert was superb served with quince jelly, grapes and biscuits.
Unpasteurised British Cheeses Quince Jelly, Grapes, Biscuits
Four
If you are too full for cheese then try one of the more traditional lighter desserts such as pear and vanilla shortbread or chocolate tarte. This was served with apricots and chantilly cream.
Pear and Vanilla Shortbread Stack Poire William Sorbet
Chocolate Tart Apricots and Chantilly Cream
Five
Order sides such as fires or ‘dirty’ carrots with your main course.
If you are in the London Bridge area then Brigade Bar & Bistro is well worth a visit. In addition to enjoying a fine dining experience you will also be supporting a worthwhile enterprise.
We always appreciate comments so if you have been to this restaurant then please comment freely.
