Black Bream Review

Did you know you don’t eat Lobster until it’s at least 6 years old? I didn’t. But it’s one of the few things I learnt from my experience at Black Bream, Parson’s Green newest edition.

Opening back in December 2017, Black Bream is just breaking it’s stride amongst the hustle and bustle of leafy Parsons Green. It’s less than a 5 minute walk from the station, and conveniently located amongst the shops and restaurants of New King’s Road.

The front is unassuming, and I’m told by Leon that they’ve only just given in to the fact that they may need some front signage. I like it without – gives it that local, word of mouth feel that they are craving.

With ¼ of the team hailing from Truro its no surprise that the Lobster on the menu hails from Padstow. The restaurant is part of the buy one set one free scheme. Meaning, by eating lobster here you are helping increase the lobster population. So it’s win win – for Lobsters and for diners.

After our martini cocktail aperitif that included samphire and was yes, surprisingly delicious, we moved swiftly on to the much talked about Lobster in the form of Gyoza, with prawn. As a massive fan of Japanese food I wasn’t disappointed. I also loved the outside space at the front of the restaurant, where we got to enjoy the last proper weekend of British summer!

But the real treat came with the Ceviche served with pink grapefruit and avocado, which was divine. Literally divine. It was fresh, flavoursome and the fish was chunky – it felt simple, but I dragged out eating it in the hope it wouldn’t be over. Equally impressive was the beef tartare and parmesan crisp, made with consideration, these chefs are not messing around – no less than 28 day Angus was used it was packed with pickles and capers. The perfect meat companion to the ceviche.

We paired our food with a very easy drinking white, Grillo “Bio” 2017 Cantine IGP, which was made with no pesticides or chemicals – good news for the hangover.

We took the goats cheese coquettes special which were served with caramelised onion. As a cheese enthusiast I am not one to miss a cheese special, and this was a little bit of fried heavenly balls.

Keen to sample the market fish, Simon recommended the Fillet of Sea Bream, which we were curious about as it was served with strawberries and balsamic. The courgette puree was a welcome addition and the strawberries came softened and warmed. The fish was fresh, and fell apart. And bonus, there was no picking it off the bone.

Finishing with a tequila espresso martini and Russian Flat White was a perfect after dinner pick up, after what was a fresh, and tasty dinner.

Black Bream was casual but chic, friendly and classy. In fact, I loved it so much I might well be back for brunch, and bonus, I hear its available all day!

Website: www.blackbreamsw6.co.uk

Address: Black Bream, 177 New Kings Road, London, SW6 4SW

By Polly Robin