Following a sold out run in 2014, Scottish pop-up Dram & Smoke is returning to it’s former home in a leather tannery warehouse in London Bridge for four weeks this winter. First up a hot toddy on entrance. Like a true functioning alcoholic I nailed that on the way to my seat. Just ten steps or so from the entrance to my table.
At my seat I ordered a bottle of the house red from the short but well-formed wine list which was accompanied by craft beer from Scottish brewers Harviestoun who were launching some exclusive rare batch tipples. I introduced myself to the table and made small talk with the two couples already there. Luckily for them the lighting was intimate, so I was confident the spot on my nose which was still going strong on an eight-week run, would look less threatening.
Anyway, things kick off with – Duck Donuts served with Irn Bru Chilli Jam. Let me tell you Krispy Cremes are missing a trick. This was one of the best donuts I’ve ever tasted and believe me I’ve been round the donut block. Next up the a turn of elegance brings proceedings to Potted Smoked Mushrooms, Dunsyre Blue Cheese & Homemade Pickles. This was over shadowed by a lobster broth that was quite something. The guy next to me had something against lobster so declined his. I was tempted to knock it back for him, because I hate waste, I love lobster and when it comes to free food I scavenge like a raccoon in a dumpster. However the waiter came and claimed it, and the moment was gone.
The main arrived: Epic carve-at-the-table Roast Rack of Pork with hits of Stornoway Black Pudding accompanied by chargrilled plums and buckets of crisp crackling. Yours truly carved up the meat like a pro, and succulent, tender, just on point. I felt like a viking ripping through that rack. Finally, sharing trays of Whisky Bread & Butter Pudding with jugs of Malted Milk Custard brought the curtain down on a wonderful night. I had a couple of Naked Grouse’s at the bar and left, utterly satiated.
For the £40 as well as a brand new five course menu, a slew of other fresh twists are in the mix as part of the £40 ticket. Ping pong, foosball and a host of other games will be available for those with fidgety feet and a competitive spirit. With food served up at large round 10-12 person tables (plus a banquet table for 20). Dram & Smoke is also available for private-hire throughout the festive season.
Twitter @Dram_and_Smoke
Located at BBNo. HQ, 79 ENID STREET, LONDON SE16 3RA
