Blacklock Shoreditch

Discover London's Finest Steaks and Ambience

A recent visit to Blacklock proved to be a delightful exploration in dining, embodying the kind of steely craftsmanship one would expect from a chophouse that understands the drama of simplicity. Upon arrival, it was evident that the ambiance harkened to both the charming bustle of a New York grill and the comforting embrace of a classic British pub. Despite being enveloped by the energetic hum of a filled-to-capacity room, the noise hardly seemed a problem once you witnessed the convivial spirit it fostered among patrons and staff alike. Settling into this atmosphere, I found the attentive yet unobtrusive service to be part of Blacklock’s allure, with personnel who, sommelier-like in their knowledge, guided diners seamlessly through the menu with verve and warmth.

As the plates arrived, each offering sang in its quiet brilliance. The melt-in-your-mouth £22 ribeye was a standout, rivaling—and perhaps even besting—London's famed steak titans like Hawksmoor. Every morsel of meat was expertly cooked, tender, and elegantly accompanied by the Blacklock gravy—a rich reduction that emphasized the smoky depths of the steak. The sides, perked up by impossible-to-resist beef-fat chips, demonstrated the kitchen’s knack for the decisive flavors supporting their main attractions. Service was notably swift given the mixed crowd, ensuring nothing felt rushed nor excessively delayed—a testament to a well-oiled machine led effortlessly by informed staff like Augustina, whose warmth truly enhanced our evening. Visits to Blacklock may leave your palate anticipating your next return, neither reliant on pomp nor circumstance, just simply an extraordinary execution of the familiar. — Nigel Gourmet