When it comes to drinking, I am not much of a drinker. I enjoy the odd glass of red wine now and then to relax and unwind, but you definitely won’t catch me with a WKD in hand like my 15 year old self or even out on the tiles in general really because I am the world’s biggest granny. So having a “local” is definitely not something that I have or have even considered.
And then an invite popped into my inbox inviting me down to Smith and Whistle, located at The Park Lane hotel which I absolutely adore, and marketed as Mayfair’s newest local complete with a cool and quirky detective/mystery themed bar and menu… now, this is a local that I can get on board with.
Now, because I have the patience of 4 year old, I’m giving away a major spoiler here in the fact that I absolutely loved Smith and Whistle. From the stunning surroundings and exquisite food, it was one of my favourite dining experiences of late (and trust me, I have done all the eating out recently). However before I start practising my best food critic impression – which we all know will fall short and only serve to make me look a complete and utter tit! – I wanted to show you around Smith and whistle because the interiors really are something special. Read, look and start pinning everything to your home interiors Pinterest board ladies, and don’t feel sorry about it for a single second…
Once I had picked my jaw up from the floor and stopped snapping away at all of the copper, geometric, marble goodness – I mean, really, they couldn’t have got any more #BloggerGoals if they’d tried, could they? – it was time to be introduced to the menu. Dan and I were greeted by David, manager of Smith and whistle, who firstly explained to us the whole concept of Smith and whistle and then went on to explain the menu, talking through each option, how to order – the food comes up in mini jars so guests tend to order 3/4 dishes for 2 people – and offering us whatever we liked. I’d just like to take a moment to say that service as wonderful as David’s (and all of the Smith and Whistle staff, Kamil and Olda included) really is what puts the cherry on top of the cake. For me personally, you can take me to the most wonderful restaurant but if the customer service is lacklustre and the staff don’t care, it immediately dampens my experience. I can safely say that the customer service received from Smith and whistle set us up for the most perfect evening.
I also wanted to add for the coeliacs out there, that David, Kamil and Olda – the Smith and Whistle staff looking after us – were perfect when it came to gluten free options. Double checking each dish and alerting the kitchen to be extra diligent, I felt in safe hands from the off set.
The extremely extensive drinks menu, while incredible, also left me with a bit of FOMO (that’s “fear of missing out” Mum) because while the cocktails looked incredible (and are kinda’ one of Smith and Whistles selling points) I was very much craving a sparkling wine. I went with my heart, deciding to go back for a cocktail later because Yolo..
We then picked out some appetisers to begin with which included the best pork crackling I have ever eaten in my life. Crunchy, but light, and rich but not greasy or over powering, it became a battle as to who could eat the most in the shortest time.
I, of course, won that battle…
Alongside the most delicious mix of olives, sun blushed tomatoes and artichoke which I could’ve eaten all day long!
When the decision comes for you to go hard or go home, you always go hard…
We opted for the brawn of pork and piccalilli, potted south Devon crab – which I couldn’t have as it wasn’t gluten free – roast haddock and mussels with quinoa and broccoli and my all time favourite, the curious brew battered fish fingers with chips. The battered fish fingers were made gluten free, and my heart was made happy for the entire week following.
The Brawn of Pork and Piccalilli, I have to admit, was not what I was expecting. It came up almost like a juicy pate – which I personally love – and full of a rich, punchy flavour, served with gluten free bread… it was an absolute delight. The perfect way to start off our main course.
As I mentioned, the potted crab wasn’t gluten free so as much as I would have loved to have delved in, I obviously couldn’t. Dan loved this dish however, saying it was extremely tasty and he was glad that it wasn’t GF so that he could actually finish it off without me pinching any. #RelationshipGoals 😉
I loved, loved, loved this dish. The Haddock was cooked to perfection – being able to reheat leftovers totally makes me qualified to say this, right? 😉 – and was so tasty but the quinoa mix was my favourite. I have no idea how to describe it other than beyond tasty (which is beyond useless… so I highly recommend ordering this if you check out Smith and whistle).
I need to take a moment to compose myself otherwise this section of the post could be a complete fangirl/word vomit moment. At this meal, I ate battered fish for the first time in 5 years. But it wasn’t just any old battered fish (and it wasn’t M&S fish either…) It really was the lightest, most flavourful I’ve ever eaten. Dan, who can and does eat all the gluten said it was the best he’s eaten too which I really feel is testament in itself. The chips were thick and amazing, and it came complete with a crumbed mushy pea ball – Hi, I’m Elle, and I have the descriptive skills of a 5 year old – that wasn’t gluten free but I have it on good authority that it tasted amazing.
Topping up on drinks in between, we ordered a beer for Dan – because, lads… – and a Sticky Fingers for me which was amazing but so strong (and I’d asked for it with less alcohol) so if you’re not really into your alcohol/spirits, I’d maybe stick to the non alcoholic versions or a nice glass of wine instead. But it did taste incredible in a “knocks your socks off” kinda way.
Despite starting to get full, we soldiered on – which is no surprise as I am legit known for my horrendously large appetite – I finished off my 3 course meal with poached fruit and lemon verbena sabayon (yep, I have no idea what that is either) and it was stunning. I actually never opt for fruit (read: anything healthy) for dessert however this was the only gluten free option, and actually, it was the perfect, refreshing end to the meal. Dan went for the spiced rum chocolate mousse, and judging by the fact that he said “I so wish you could taste this” 3 times, I think he really liked it!
Now, if you wasn’t already impressed by the mushy pea balls, the gluten free battered fish and bread; prepare for something very, very special. Ladies and gents, prepare for what the cool kids call, “latte art”…
… pretty special right?
I am well aware that this has become a pretty hefty post, but I still have a few little bits left to say [insert bored/tried face emoji here]. Being invited to Smith and Whistle, being allowed to take my fiancee along with me, being treated to the most stunning food and drink, and generally just being waited on hand and foot by the most wonderful team of staff… it’s times like this that I am so grateful for my job, and that I get to experience the things that I do. A huge thank you to the Smith and whistle team and everyone involved with setting this review up, I am already looking forward to taking my family back there and letting them discover Mayfair’s newest – and most amazing – local. And the Elle next door’s newest place to fangirl over… 😉
As always, thank you so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this post!
xx
*We were very kindly gifted our meal in exchange for a review. All thoughts, photo’s and love of gluten free battered fish, my own.
That's it – I have to move down south, my current location seems to think haggis baked into a pie, a sausage or a dog treat is the epitome of fine dining, I can't cope with all the haggis when I see posts like this!
SHUT UP THAT LATTE ART NO WAY! Ok, I know I seem a tad over excited, but wow this place! They have everything from the interiors, overall theme, food and service spot on!
Wow, the food, the decor, it all just looks amazing! And so good that they made such an effort to check what was gluten free for you 🙂 I agree, good service does just make so much difference!
Interior… food… everything looks great! Also everything is captured perfectly, enjoyed what I saw and what I read 🙂 Glad you had a really nice time there xx
What an amazing place! This post has made me so hungry haha. That's great to hear that the staff were so lovely, because I'm so uncool I find places like this a bit intimidating sometimes haha but that's fab they were good x
Oh my giddy aunt the food and interiors look incredible! I love how the menu is set out too, like a little tick box list – if they did vegan food I'd be all over this!
Wow, Ellie, sounds like you spent great (and delicious) in that restaurant, I really like as much food as much drinks (this sparkling wine looks divine!) and btw, you took great photos 🙂
Oh Elle girl, I am in love with this place. I just love their logo and their overall ambiance from your photos. And the food, we won't even talk about how I wish I was there with you girl lol. Love this post so much.
I'm so so happy you loved the place & David loved reading your review too (plus he thinks your photos are amazing, so do I of course). I love cocktails and trying out new flavours so Sticky fingers was quite tasty x
Ahh that's so lovely to hear Alina, I'm so pleased he liked it! Yes definitely, it really was tasty, I'm just a bit of a wimp when it comes to spirits 🙂
Love this post! The bar decor was so chic and warm, the food looks fantastic and I love your writing! The theme of the bar is interesting too. Sounds like a fun night!
I always get major photography envy when I read your posts Elle! Seriously, you could carve out a career as a photographer! Sounds like you had a lovely time 🙂 x
I could cry with how hungry I am right now after reading this haha, I don't really drink either (but that's because of meds) but I would have to just try one 😉 or just a coffee haha! I definitely want to go and try the crab now xxx
Elle you are seriously the best photographer of food- I am drooling! The fish and chips look amazing and I would love to try the rum chocolate mousse 🙂 Also- that coffee-?! Now that's talent!
Congrats on winning for the fastest time to ate the appetizers. lol I'm jealous and i want to dig in too The Bandwagon Chic | Instagram | Bloglovin | Snapchat: bandwagonchic
The interior design of this place is beautiful and don't even get me started on the battered fish.. swoon! Fantastic photography in this post, by the way 🙂
Wow, the food looks amazing! And so do your photos. Love discovering new places in London through your blog. Will keep this place in mind for special occasions like my hubby's birthday or our wedding anniversary 🙂 x
Seems like a lovely place in London for a comfy stay. Thanks for sharing this girl
Chaicy recently posted.. Denim Love
You're welcome, it was such an incredible place!
xx
Wow everything looks so good!
Candice | Beauty Candy Loves
It was SO so tasty, highly recommend! 🙂
xx
Looks like you had a great time there!! Beautiful pics & the food looks really yumm!!
Kisses <3
http://www.rakhshanda-chamberofbeauty.com
Thanks so much lovely, so pleased you liked the photo's!
xx
That latte art! It all looks wonderful though, and great that you got to share it with you fiancee (even if you couldn't share the crab :P)
Isn't it amazing? And so true, I feel so grateful that we both got to go!
xx
Lovely post, this makes me all hungry! I really love how they plated everything. x
eastofsiam.blogspot.com
It was so well done wasn't it? Beyond impressed with everything!
xx
That's it – I have to move down south, my current location seems to think haggis baked into a pie, a sausage or a dog treat is the epitome of fine dining, I can't cope with all the haggis when I see posts like this!
Rosy | Sparkles of Light Blog
Haha definitely do it girl, it's worth it for this visit alone. Haha omg the haggis diaries… brilliant!
xx
SHUT UP THAT LATTE ART NO WAY! Ok, I know I seem a tad over excited, but wow this place! They have everything from the interiors, overall theme, food and service spot on!
Style Sunrise☀
🙂
x
Haha isn't is absolutely stunning, I loved everything about it!
xx
Wow, the food, the decor, it all just looks amazing! And so good that they made such an effort to check what was gluten free for you 🙂 I agree, good service does just make so much difference!
Helen xx
Hels Yeah | Fashion & Lifestyle
Thanks lovely, everything you said is just spot on!
xx
That interior!! And damn, why do I ALWAYS look at food posts when I am hungry?? This all looks so delicious!!
Meg | A Little Twist Of…
Haha sorry lovely, that's the worst isn't it?
xx
It all looks so yummy! Definitely must visit one day, great photos too by the way X
Thanks so much Vanisha, so pleased you liked them!
xx
Your photography is beautiful!! That coffee is amazing! All this has made me hungry! x
http://www.beckieeschle.com
Ah thank you so much lovely, so pleased you liked it!
xx
Interior… food… everything looks great! Also everything is captured perfectly, enjoyed what I saw and what I read 🙂 Glad you had a really nice time there xx
http://www.elabellaworld.com
Thanks so much hun!
xx
Wow! This place is gorgeous! The interior is absolutely stunning; I love every photo!
WritingMonique
Thank you so much lovely!
xx
What an amazing place! This post has made me so hungry haha. That's great to hear that the staff were so lovely, because I'm so uncool I find places like this a bit intimidating sometimes haha but that's fab they were good x
Josie’s Journal
Haha omg no don't be silly, they were so welcoming, I felt so comfortable!
xx
I would love to eat at that hotel since one has a great experience.
http://www.spring2spring.com
I highly recommend it lovely, such a gorgeous place!
xx
Oh my giddy aunt the food and interiors look incredible! I love how the menu is set out too, like a little tick box list – if they did vegan food I'd be all over this!
Lauren x
Britton Loves | Lifestyle Food Beauty
Ahh it's such a shame about the vegan options lovely, otherwise you'd have loved it here!
xx
I can't wait to check this place out when I'm next in London!
Alice / Alice Grace Beauty
x
Yes you have to lovely, so so amazing!
xx
The latte art! Oh my god I need to go just for that! <3 x
Martha Jane | http://www.marthajanemusic.com
Isn't it incredible? Beyond impressed!
xx
Wow, Ellie, sounds like you spent great (and delicious) in that restaurant, I really like as much food as much drinks (this sparkling wine looks divine!) and btw, you took great photos 🙂
http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/
Thanks so much lovely, so pleased you liked them!
xx
Oh Elle girl, I am in love with this place. I just love their logo and their overall ambiance from your photos. And the food, we won't even talk about how I wish I was there with you girl lol. Love this post so much.
Kia / KTS
http://www.houseofkts.com
Ahh thanks so much lovely, so happy you liked it. Come over to London and we'll go 😉
xx
Beautiful photos! This place looks amazing…I want all that food! 🙂
http://roadesque.com
http://ourruins.com
Thank you hun, so pleased you liked it!
xx
I'm so so happy you loved the place & David loved reading your review too (plus he thinks your photos are amazing, so do I of course). I love cocktails and trying out new flavours so Sticky fingers was quite tasty x
Beauty with charm
Ahh that's so lovely to hear Alina, I'm so pleased he liked it! Yes definitely, it really was tasty, I'm just a bit of a wimp when it comes to spirits 🙂
xx
Love this post! The bar decor was so chic and warm, the food looks fantastic and I love your writing! The theme of the bar is interesting too. Sounds like a fun night!
http://Leftbankgirl.blogspot.com
Isn't the decor so lovely, I'm so pleased you liked the writing too. Thank you!
xx
Looks like a very cool place to visit and dear Lord, the food looks scrumptious! Xx
eLLa
every LiTTLE thing07
It really, really was. Such a gorgeous meal!
xx
Wow, it looks absolutely amazing! It definitely looks like the sort of place I'd love to visit. If only it was my local!
Rachael at broomfie.blogspot.com
Ahh I know the feeling lovely!
xx
I always get major photography envy when I read your posts Elle! Seriously, you could carve out a career as a photographer! Sounds like you had a lovely time 🙂 x
Brenda BusyBee
Ahh Brenda thank you so much for the loveliest words, that really means so much!
xx
I could cry with how hungry I am right now after reading this haha, I don't really drink either (but that's because of meds) but I would have to just try one 😉 or just a coffee haha! I definitely want to go and try the crab now xxx
Haha so with you on both parts lovely. It was all so amazing, I'd highly recommend!
xx
Oh my gosh, this is by far my favorite food post of you, yet. I wanna, no I NEED to go here at some point.
N- Naomi in Wonderland
Ah thank you lovely, so pleased you liked it! 🙂
xx
That food looks incredible. I love the sound of the cocktails too. Need to check this place out. KBxx
http://beautybykaris.com
Definitely check it out hun, it's so so beautiful!
xx
Amazing post! Nice photos!
http://www.adelaacanski.com/
Thanks so much, so pleased you liked the photo's!
xx
The food looks yummy! And the setting… Awesome♥♥
chocolateandsunset.com
Thanks lovely, it really was amazing!
xx
Oh my gosh your photos are breathtaking! Everything looks absolutely divine—I'm drooling <3
xxx
She Will Be
Ahh thank you so much hun, I'm so pleased you liked them!
xx
I'm glad I stopped by…. Wonderfully written site. I'm becoming a subscriber.
xo, Mila
http://www.pinkwhistle.com.pl
Thank you so much, so pleased you enjoyed! 🙂
xx
Elle you are seriously the best photographer of food- I am drooling! The fish and chips look amazing and I would love to try the rum chocolate mousse 🙂 Also- that coffee-?! Now that's talent!
Rachel xx
http://www.thedailyluxe.net
Ahhh that means the world Rachel thank you SO much!
xx
Mouth watering! I love the photos so much!
Dora
http://www.BangsBang.com
Thanks so much Dora 🙂
xx
Congrats on winning for the fastest time to ate the appetizers. lol
I'm jealous and i want to dig in too
The Bandwagon Chic | Instagram | Bloglovin | Snapchat: bandwagonchic
Haha thank you, I take that job very seriously 😉
xx
This sounds and looks soooo good!
So great to see they cater to coeliacs!
Angie x | Chocolate & Lipstick || UK Beauty and Lifestyle Blog
Thank you lovely, I was so pleased to find that they catered so well!
xx
The interior design of this place is beautiful and don't even get me started on the battered fish.. swoon! Fantastic photography in this post, by the way 🙂
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice
x
All of the food looks so amazing I'm drooling :') It looks like the perfect place to go out for dinner 🙂 xx
Wow, the food looks amazing! And so do your photos. Love discovering new places in London through your blog. Will keep this place in mind for special occasions like my hubby's birthday or our wedding anniversary 🙂 x
Renata
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