Much like neighbouring backstreet foodie destination Smithy’s, this stunning old industrial workshop building has been transformed into a fabulous dining space.
06 St Chad’s Place has been tucked away down an atmospheric alleyway for over a decade. Feted by those in the know, the single, vaulted room lets natural light flood in, while diners, seated on stark Scandinavian furniture, choose from a limited selection of daily specials.
The former Thameslink interchange directly beneath is celebrated with a life-size train mural across the wall.
We attempted to visit on a Friday lunchtime but, arriving at just a few minutes past the hour, were told that the kitchen always closes at 2pm. Strange for a dining space seemingly suited to afternoon lingering under the guise of a business meeting.
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For our second attempt, we left nothing to chance and were the first lunchtime table seated. The food? Not quite up there with recent Granary Square openings, but pleasing nonetheless. With no starters on the menu, a serving of salmon and sour cream pierogi was a generous main, strewn on a bed of spinach with slow-roast tomatoes. A flavoursome roast duck breast (pictured) was slightly over-cooked, its flesh no longer pink as it rested on top of dauphinoise potatoes and a sticky-sweet plum sauce.
A surprise highlight proved to be a house side salad, its mixed leaves heaving with roasted peppers, moreish croutons and goat’s cheese. A glass of quaffable La Vidabaubanaise rose was £6.80.
As we contemplated pudding, a steady stream of well-dressed locals passed through the takeaway area, picking up £5 boxes of salad and hot food or ciabatta rolls.
Coffee proved excellent, with perfect acidity to accompany a muscular slab of baked strawberry cheesecake.
