Take a break from the rat-race, and enjoy a tipple within one of London’s biggest business districts. Overlooking Canary Wharf’s North Dock, wine aficionados Corney & Barrow’s branch here is effortlessly elegant yet unpretentious.
The Venue:
Whether dining indoors, or stepping out with a drink to admire the waterfront view, the Corney & Barrow at Canary Wharf exudes class. We were seated by our waiter on stools by a window side table facing the quay, and after breezing through some tasty specials, he left us to browse the extensive wine list. The interiors are all muted colours, leather furnishings, and quirky decorative touches – ice cool without being frosty.
Relaxed and laid back, Corney & Barrow offers a charming drinking and dining option in Canary Wharf.
The Ambience & Clientele:
Those in need of a swift one after work in the city are just as likely to be seen here as ladies who lunch. Still, in the laid-back environment anyone passing through, for business or pleasure, could be comfortable drinking here. We came for an early lunch just after 12pm, yet the clinking of glasses had already commenced, and there was a pleasant conversational hubbub.
You will be instantly impressed by the attentive staff, who manage to strike the rare middle ground between being blasé and overbearing. The soundtrack was eclectic and clever, seamlessly leaping from obscure 70s funk to Grimes.
Corney & Barrow Canary Wharf excel in all things al fresco.
The Food & Drinks:
Our waiter was kind enough to recommend a fruity bottle that suited this late summer’s day. With a breadth of knowledge in their field, the staff are prepared to aide connoisseurs and wine philistines alike in picking something appropriate. The Domaine de Montaubéron Rosé, 2012/13, at £27.00, was a fresh, strawberry flavoured delight. As we sipped away, our starters of assorted breads, with dipping pesto and oils (£3.50), olives (£3.50), and edamame beans in chilli salt (£3.95), were served! The food came promptly, but we were given the choice of a small pause after our first delicious eats.
After another glass of wine, our mains were delivered, presented immaculately. We went for the special of the day as recommended, a battered prawn noodle salad (£10.95), and crispy bacon salad with soft boiled egg (£11.95). The latter’s yolk oozed perfectly, and came with minted baby potatoes, broad beans and smoked tomatoes. The prawns were light, and the noodles dressed with a tangy, chilli sauce. We were very tempted to order puddings – Eton mess (£5.95) or chocolate torte (£4.95), perhaps… However, we were a little tipsy, and fit to burst, so walked out in to urban jungle once more.
Corney & Barrow Canary Wharf offers a charming spot to wind down with a beverage.
Summary:
Satiate your desire for a fine glass of wine, and treat yourself to fresh, modern cuisine whilst you’re at it. The up-to-date décor and welcoming staff make for a memorable dining experience with friends or family, but you’re just as welcome to clink champagne glasses with bankers and business people at the bar. Corney & Barrow Canary Wharf are as au fait with hospitality as they are with vino.
