The Albannach is pretty established now. I went there a few times just after it opened, eating in the restaurant and in the bar. I was impressed by the quality and style of the place, especially when you consider its location in Trafalgar Square. So now several years later we decided to make a return visit. The decor and layout had changed a bit, but the Alabannach still has its own distinctive style. The interior design incorporates some stunning customized lighting, using a Stag and Antlers theme.
My reservation was based on ordering from the set menu (part of a deal I used to cash in on some of my toptable points). This turned out to be a bit of a false economy, as we found this menu to be a little too basic for our taste. On past experience I think going a la carte might be a better option here.
The 3 fish terrine we had for starters was good, but the main courses were disappointing, in that I had to order an extra dish to go with my sea bass and the alternative main course option of lamb stew would not have been out of place in a soup kitchen. The watery stew was definitely not sophisticated enough for this type of venue. Fortunately we ordered a very nice (if expensive) bottle of Gewürztraminer to drown the rather disappointing food.
UPDATE : CLOSED