Trading Up In The Heart of the City
The Trading House is one of the newer additions to the restaurant scene in the city. Formerly The Bank of New Zealand, this grade II listed building is somewhat of a glorious sight. Full of gorgeous vintage trinkets, suitcases and large globes, the space itself feels somewhat like an adventurers store cupboard, full of memories from across the globe. The central bar is somewhat of a sight in itself and the lighting in the venue perfectly compliments the space.
The transformation suits the former bank wonderfully. Something is clearly working as the space was bursting with people on the Thursday evening we visited. When we arrived a smiling waitress who led us over the restaurant area greeted us. We started the evening with a bottle of their delicious Prosecco. Upon browsing the menu it soon became clear that it was a traditionally English menu, think prawn cocktails, posh scotch eggs and honey-roasted sausages. We started the evening with a prawn cocktail and a portion of calamari – both of which were delicious. The prawn cocktail was a stand out starter, bursting with a range of delicious flavours.
For our mains we had the pan-fried sea bass fillets, which were perfectly cooked, and a mouthwatering medium rare rib eye steak. The portions were hearty and comforting, the perfect fare for fans of traditional British dining. Another dish, which is certainly worth mentioning, is there amazing looking hanging kebabs, perfect for picking and nicely presented.
As the evening progressed we moved onto the cocktail menu and each tried an expresso martini – which certainly packed a punch, perfect for waking you up after the post dinner slump.
The evening was a lively environment; it was a very busy space brimming with atmosphere. There was live music a plenty also – so it’s a great place to start the evening with dinner then move onto the bar area for the evening.
The venue will also be serving a selection of Christmas tipples to wet your palette, choose from a Cinnamon and Ginger Manhattan, a Lemon and Anise Sour or a Orange Cinnamon Coffee.
A welcome addition to the city we have no doubt that The Trading House will be a busy space feeding and watering the masses throughout the holiday season. Just add a sparkly Christmas dress and a spot of mistletoe and you’ll be good to go.
The Trading House, 89-91 Gresham Street London EC2V 7NQ, 020 7600 5050. Nearest tube: Bank.
