Restaurant review: STEAK @ No. 12 Picardy Place

You would be forgiven for walking past Steak’s unassuming entrance, however you might not forgive yourself. The kitchen of this recent venture is headed by Jason Wright, previously of Ondine Seafood.

We decided a cocktail was necessary as it was my friend’s birthday it seemed rude not to. We chose Smoking Apricots (£7.50) and A Different Class (£7) from a small and rather eclectic choice. They were different – the apricot one tasted vaguely as if it had been put on the grill – but delicious. A reasonably priced Malbec (£20) selected from the extensive wine list followed.

For a starter, I picked a favourite; Beef Carpaccio with Basil & Rocket Cress, Beetroot and Lemon Oil (£8), which could have benefited from a touch of seasoning. This was the only time we looked for the (absent) salt and pepper on our table. Birthday girl was recommended Potted Beef Shin with Red Onion Marmalade and Toasted Onion Bread (£7) which was melt-in-the-mouth soft.

After a concise explanation of the types of steak from our helpful waitress, we chose the Fillet on the Bone (250g at £22.50) with Peppercorn Sauce, with Buttered Spinach and Hazelnuts and Triple Cooked Chips with Beef Dripping (£3 each) on the side and Spiced Lamb Cutlets with Salsa Verdi, Rosti Potato and Mint Jus (£16.50). Both were delicious with outstanding flavours combining perfectly.

We finished superbly with the Pear and Frangipane tart with Madagascan vanilla ice cream and a Classic Crème Brulée (both £6).

This restaurant is specialising in traditional good food with a lavish edge. I would not hesitate in going back.

STEAK @ No. 12 Picardy Place

Hannah Milton