Throughout the time we lived in London, never once we visited the Icebar. I tried to visit the place last Dec, but the Xmas holidayers filled up the queue that I gave up the thought. I gave it another go when I was there last month.
Despite the reservation I was told to wait in line since they operate on fixed time slot and I'd arrived early. I was offered to have my meal at the restaurant while waiting for my session. I supposed the only difference in Icebar Bar and Icebar Restaurant is the what's being served.
So I went on.
Ha, no lor. There's nothing ICE about the restaurant/lounge area!!!
It was toasty warm on there, which I welcome but at the same time a little disappointment!!!
First you will be offered the cloak room service where you can keep all your belongings and coat/jackets. A fee of GBP2 will be added to your bill for using this facility.
Once seated, the waitress tried very hard to get me to order the starter/nibble, which I was tempted but knowing my capacity, resisted!
This is what I had.
Grilled pork loin, pork cheek, black pudding, spiced swede puree, confit red cabbage, red win jus (GBP18) with Rocket and Parmesan salad (GBP3.50).
Liquid wise, I had Kiwi Caipirinha (GBP 7.70) - I always love a good Caipirinha!
I was rather filled after the main, but the waitress strongly recommend this choc-ky dessert, and my will gave in! Dark Chocolate Tart, Chocolate Bailey's Mousse, and Ice cream (GBP6) - very rich, and a good bitter capuccino (GBPx) went well with it.
You can see the Icebar merchandise for sale:
It was indeed a special experience, everything is made of ice, including my drinking glass. But I was freezing my butt in there. You are allowed to stay for the entire session of 40min, but I had to get out after 15min! It is too cold for me. Well, for someone who is used to 30C all year round, -5C is C-O-L-D!
I only remembered to take some pic when I was about to get out...
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ICEBAR by ICEHOTEL London/Below zero restaurant,
31-33 Heddon Street, Mayfair, London
+44 (0) 20 7478 8910,
www.belowzerlondon.com.