restaurant review: modern pantry

Have you been to The Modern Pantry? Situated in a pretty townhouse at the back of St John’s Square in Clerkenwell, this restaurant has quickly become one of my favourites. I actually feel a bit slow to the mark as the restaurant originally opened in 2009! But alas, I only learned about it this summer when I bought their exquisite cookbook. The recipes I’ve tried so far are delicious and I’ve been intrigued by the eclectic and at times bizarre mix of Asian and Mexican ingredients they suggest.

At dinner, I started with a dish I’d seen in the cookbook but have yet to find the courage to make myself, salmon sashimi with truffled mustard seed and yuzo dressing. The sashimi was excellent, the truffle giving an earthly balance to the bite of the yuzo dressing. My fabulous partner in crime indulged himself with a think and creamy bowl of mushroom soup topped with a dollop of spiced yogurt and a selection of wild mushrooms.  I didn’t taste the soup but as there was nothing left, I assume no complaints!

For mains we ordered a starter portion of crispy lamb served with pickled beetroots. Cubes of lamb cutlets were breaded and deep fried creating a mouthful of oozy deliciousness whilst the tartness of the beetroot cut beautifully though the fatty lamb. The second main was a simple risotto made special by the Filo baked ball of mozzarella nestled on top.

The Modern Pantry offers a wonderful selection of wine by the glass and they include pairing suggestions on the menu which allowed us to taste a variety of wines instead of being stuck with a single bottle.

Sadly, neither of us had room for desserts but as the menu changes regularly, I will definitely be back to try one next time.

The ModernPantry, 47-48 St John’s Square, Clerkenwell, London EC1V 4JJ

Images from The Modern Pantry