Seeking a convenient lunch, but don’t want to compromise on taste? Farmer J hits the spot
10 restaurants and counting for Farmer J, and there is good reason! The latest opening in the portfolio is on Fenchurch Street and adds to the brand’s mission – to serve Londoners honest food straight from farm to fork, which they have been doing (effectively!) since 2014.
Home of the famous ‘field tray’, a comparted and environmentally–friendly tray that elevates the classic canteen dining experience, guests are welcomed to construct their perfect lunch. The concept allows visitors to select their base (brown, rice, baby spinach or Farmer’s grains), followed by a main of choice.
I was blown away by the calibre of the food and décor. Whilst the concept should scream ‘school meals’, the elevated interior, country-style open kitchens and friendly staff – alongside the buzzing crowd– is the complete opposite. Main dishes were healthy, luxurious twists on world-inspired dishes such as Charred Harissa Chicken, Chermoula Chicken with Tahini, Charred Flank Steak, Lime Leaf Tofu Curry and Gochujang Salmon. Side note: you can buy pots of the herbs in-store which make lovely gifts or take-homes.
I went with the flank steak which was cooked to absolute perfection and incredibly tender. I opted to add the chimichurri sauce which was the best accompaniment and packed so much flavour – highly recommend. Next up are sides, you can pick two as part of the field tray and extras are priced out accordingly.
Guests can choose from options such as Feta Caeser Salad, Kale Miso Slaw, Seasonal Mac and Cheese (a must–order) and Miso Hispi & Aubergine, among other seasonal dishes and potato-based sides. To complement the steak, I went for the kale miso slaw and mac and cheese. All dishes were well seasoned and clearly made with fresh and healthy seasonal ingredients. I really feel the farm-to-table concept shone through with the bold and distinctive tastes and colourful ingredients.
A range of drinks are available, from trendy kombucha, fresh lemonade and Trip CBD cans, to fresh juices and barista coffee. If a ‘lunch wine’ is needed (no judgement here), Farmer J has your back with a range of bottled and canned vino options, a nice surprise for a canteen-concept.
Alongside the field trays, field bowls are also available – both to eat in or take away if you need to get back to your desk sooner– and a breakfast menu including all our millennialfavourites from topped toasts and egg bowls, to overnight oats and fruit salads and yogurts.
It’s healthy, it’s fresh – sure it’s a little on the pricey side – but with 60% of London workers still working from home or operating in a hybrid format, the office days are there to treat yourself to lunch, right?
With Farmer J’s popping up regularly, we’re excited to see where the next location lands. And it could be sooner than you think, watch this space…
To find out more visit > www.farmerj.com
Written by Kara Buffrey
