Roka was simply stunning. Everything from the décor, to the food, the presentation, the service, the company...and the waiting staff ;). I will be using the word "stunning" a lot throughout this post.
Roka Aldwych is Roka's newest addition. If you are not already aware (and shame on you if not) there is also Roka Mayfair, Roka Canary Wharf and the original restaurant which is located on Charlotte Street.
The interior of Roka Aldwych is very much in keeping with the original restaurant - elegant and warm. But this new venue is larger and more grand, with high ceilings and a New York-esque feel.
This blog post is going to be very picture heavy and I will try to keep my ramblings to a minimum. In summary, every dish and every drink was simply stunning.
As my fellow diner informed me, "you have to have a Twinkle at Roka." A Twinkle is made up of vodka, elderflower cordial and champagne. It was light, refreshing and very easy to drink. Hence this photo is a not a true reflection of the number that we ordered.
I believe the cocktail below had a bourbon base but I'm afraid I can't remember the other ingredients. Once again, we ordered more than one and it was yummy.
As is typical with most Japansese restaurants of this nature, the food is designed for sharing and each dish arrives as and when it is ready. It's my favourite way of eating as it never leaves me feeling to full. The tables are circular rather than square and dishes and plates being passed around makes the meal even more sociable.
Soft shell crab sushi...
Yellow tail sashimi with truffle yuzu dressing. This is one of my favourite dishes of all time...
Sweet potato with truffle oil...
Rock shrimp tempura with chilli mayonnaise...hallelujah...
The beautifully presented seared beef with black truffle dressing, cucumber and miso tapioca crisp..
Roka's signature... Lamb cutlets in Korean spices...cooked to perfection with juicy flavoursome fat around the edges...
Another firm favourite..Spicy beef. I feel as though this dish is somewhat underrated and I'm not sure why...I'm hoping this blog post helps to alleviate that somewhat!
Chicken yakitori - wings and otherwise.
Roka leaves you searching across the table at all times. "What shall I try next" ran through my mind many a time throughout this meal. There are options to suit all and every dish is perfectly executed.
Roka Aldwych is easily one of my favourite openings of 2014. Save it for a special occasion as we did, and you're bound to have a great evening. An easy 5 forks for Roka.
If Roka takes your fancy, also be sure to check out: Kurobuta, Ohisama, Sticks "n" Sushi, and Chotto Matte.
Rating:
http://rokarestaurant.com/aldwych/
