Guest writer Nathaniel Collins heads to Walkers of Whitehall to sample its newly revamped restaurant and menu…

WHAT?

Caught between the prominent west end tourist destination of Trafalgar Square, the theatre rich Stand, and the heartland of government, Walkers of Whitehall has revamped itself to become Westminster’s newest all day eatery. Whilst keeping much of its original charm from its previous life as a bank, the long-time favourite haunt of civil servants has gone through something of a much needed facelift.

The kitchen area is now open plan, the dining area has been brought into the 21st century and the bar now dares to offer cocktails alongside its impressive selection of beers and ales.

The statement of intent is clear: to move away from being just another tourist pub and offer a genuine culinary alternative. Whitehall has its first gastropub.

WHERE?

As the names suggests, Walkers of Whitehall is just off the top End of Whitehall at Craig’s Court. The nearest tube is Charing Cross, although the venue is easily accessible from Embankment or Westminster tube stations.

WHY GO?

Walkers of Whitehall uses its convenient location to capture and cater for a wide range of audience. This diversity is reflected in the menus. Theatre goers can opt for a set menu that offers two/three course meals delivered within manageable timeframes but without compromising on quality. Those with more time on their hands can go for the full lunch or dinner menus, whilst the more ambitious can opt for the ‘bottomless brunch’, available on Saturdays and Sundays.

As for the food, the starters were of a good standard and reasonably presented, although the croquettes would have benefitted from a more considered arrangement.

The grill section offers a good range of meats with an inventive range of accompaniments. The pork chop with sage and gooseberries went down particularly well.

Finally the desserts available are clearly removed from your standard pub offering, with Meringues, chocolate pot, and lemon semi-freddo eagerly enjoyed by the table.

HOW MUCH?

This is not your standard pub menu and naturally with the quality comes a price. Starters are between £6-8, the mains will set you back between £10-22, and deserts are around £6. The wine list is extensive and well selected, however the cheapest bottle is £19 and the mean price somewhat north of that figure. Cocktails are between £8-9.

15 Craig’s Court,
Whitehall,
London
SW1A 2DD

T: 0207 925 0090

Visit their website for more details www.walkersofwhitehall.co.uk.