I actually think that it was those photos I saw that made me keep putting it off; as delicious as they looked, I was still sceptical of spending 20 pounds on what looked like a tasty but average-sized lobster and fries. The whole lobster seemed more reasonable - but then again, it's the rolls that kept popping up on my radar.
When my sister requested to go to B & L on her recent trip to London (she currently lives abroad so we try to cram in as much as possible whilst she's here - lots of food involved, of course), it was the perfect opportunity to finally try this place out.
Let me start this with a bang:
Yep.
We deliberately went at a bit of a weird time as it was a Saturday and we knew the queue would get crazy later on, so after a short wait, we were sat down in a cosy booth at 5:30pm, hungry from (very successful) sales shopping.
After asking the lovely waitress what the most popular pick was from their short menu (whole lobster steamed or steamed & grilled, lobster roll or burger), she told us enthusiastically that the lobster roll would definitely be the staff's favourite. She put it like this: "If you asked any of us what we wanted from the menu, we'd all be GIMME THE LOBSTER ROLL!"
No need to say more. E, my sister and I all ordered the rolls immediately.
How wrong I was about the "average-sized" roll assumption. This thing is hefty. The brioche is so soft and feels like carb-y cloud heaven, and there's a whole lot of lobster meat in there. Dip that monster into the insanely gluttonous garlic butter, and there's no going back.
I was honestly prepared to be underwhelmed, considering all the popularity and hype over this place (too much of all that makes me a bit wary sometimes), but I stand corrected. We were all thoroughly impressed and wouldn't hesitate to go back.
If you're planning to go (which you should be), try to target off-peak times as there was already a long queue forming by the time we left, around 7pm. On weekdays you're probably better off, but it seemed like a tourist attraction as well so aim for an obscure time or take a book to read while you wait. The wait is so worth it.
I've read some good reviews on this place too, but I've never tried lobster so I don't know if I'll like it! I love prawns, squid and fish but I cannot stand crab and I worry that it might be similar to that?
ReplyDeleteThe rolls looks incredible, but I'll have to find out if lobster is my thing before committing to a meal out here.
N xo
I too have been seeing this everywhere and I still haven't been yet! That roll is huge though!
ReplyDeleteEverything looks so yummy like always hahaha
ReplyDeletexx
So pleased you enjoyed it Miho! Told you it wouldn't disappoint ;) the garlic butter just tops the whole experience off! x
ReplyDeleteMmmm so hungry reading this! I've been a few times and always have lobster straight up - it's so good!!
ReplyDeleteRosie xx
www.alittlelusciousness.com
looks yummy!x
ReplyDeleteThanks for the advice! I'll make sure to avoid peak times when I go. This one is right up my to-do list ;-) xx
ReplyDeleteI literally have to go there! It's very firmly on my list!
ReplyDeleteLots of love,
Angie
SilverSpoon London
Ugh so jealous - I'm reliving it in my mind!
ReplyDeleteYou've got me excited about B&L now! Glad you've found real lobster
ReplyDeletemeat in those rolls :3 and the fries are looking scrumptious! Xx
U have an influence on other people's current thoughts, u know that?;-) xx
ReplyDeleteOh my god this looks too good. I feel like I leave the same comment on all of your restaurant posts, but believe me I say "this looks so good" with what you posted uniquely in mind ;] Really though...I haven't had lobster in forever and wrapped up in a brioche...OMG. If I remember correctly lobster is fairly sweet too right? That just sounds perfect.
ReplyDeleteThis looks delicious! Although, now that I think about it, I'm not sure if I have ever even tried lobster before!
ReplyDeleteWow, the food looks great. Can't wait to visit this place.
ReplyDeleteMy mouth is actually watering! I've been of the same opinion that B&L looked hugely overpriced for what it was (and also I've approached it several times and been discouraged by the queues!) but the picture of the roll and the promise of garlic butter dipping has me checking through my diary for the next time I can drag someone along to get it with me! Great idea to go super early in the evening too.
ReplyDeleteTamsin xx | A Certain Adventure
That roll looks amazing! I would love to have that roll with a salad with lots of vinaigrette!
ReplyDelete