A long overdue food journal |||

Frog by Adam Handling

Situated in Covent Garden, Frog by Adam Handling has a beautiful dining space with unusual and quirky art, I particularly liked the one of the Queen which had an Andy Warhol vibe. We were greeted by very welcoming staff, oddly enough one of the managers Georgia welcomed us back, which took me by surprise as I’ve never dined at Frog. She quickly interjected to say she had taken care of us at Restaurant Story (Throwback!) which blew my mind, the fact that she could even remember me (us!). After pleasantries we quickly got into the food which was wonderful with a few standout dishes. I started the evening with a 1988 cocktail which was a mix of tequila and mezcal concoction. Before we knew it the snacks arrived and these guys don’t do anything in short order, it was a full on experience of delicious tiny bites that went from sweet to rich and savoury. We were explicitly told to eat the snacks in a specific order, which will make sense once you go.

I’ve spoken about bread before and I can’t help but do it here as well, the bread course which comes with a chicken skewer is meant to evoke memories of Adam growing up and having leftover Sunday roast sandwiches. In this case, we’re eating the bread with the most delicious chicken butter. It’s a sad truth to admit that so often I go to these types of places and think I’m good, just keep serving me bread and butter please”, but thankfully I don’t succumb and get to enjoy more wizardry from the kitchen. The lobster course was a standout as this had a hint of chilli that was actually quite powerful, not enough to make you rush for a glass of milk or anything but enough heat to make you notice. That was a theme it felt of the meal, the team uses chilli and even Sichuan peppers in some dishes so you really do experience all types of sensations, there are even a few surprises in the dishes that I won’t divulge as it’s best left to be discovered. In some ways the meal is a bit of a production which keeps the whole experience exciting and interesting.

I’ve yet to write up about dessert, but Ann and I both really loved the chocolate, caramel, and miso woodruff ice cream. All beautifully presented, it’s 65% dark chocolate but the caramel and miso is there to help cut through the bitterness. As someone who lives off of milk chocolate, this was a delicious surprise as I tend to go the sweeter route.

This is a full on blow out meal, so best for a celebration or anniversary. The staff were incredibly attentive, smiley, and friendly. You felt the vibe when you first walked in, everyone working here seems to really love it and it’s written on the patrons faces as everyone around us was having a great time enjoying the spectacle. We opted for the tasting menu with the sturgeon as that is one of their famous dishes and can be easily shared. The meal will leave you incredibly full so perhaps a walk along the South Bank after will help you digest! Enjoy and let me know your thoughts!

Price per head: £300 and up depending on drinks

Chocolate Caramel Miso WoodruffChocolate Caramel Miso Woodruff

SnacksSnacks

Bread CourseBread Course

LobsterLobster

SturgeonSturgeon

Balmoral ChickenBalmoral Chicken

19881988

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