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Polpo (Soho)

16th August 2016 by Richard Bagnold Leave a Comment

Ventian-inspired chain from Russell Norman, serving easy dishes in a fun environment 

This is my second Polpo having sampled Spuntino, and maybe it was the time of the holiday but this was a far better atmosphere and seemed slightly more spacious inside. As with the Polpo Covent Garden which I have passed by many times, the interior has been faithfully designed to resemble a typical Venetian, local eatery.  Wonderful atmosphere, rustic feel and some interesting tapas style comfort dishes to choose from over an Apperol Spritz if you want to get in to a Ventian mood.

Read full review

As with all casual environments, it is a double-edged sword – it is great for a genuinely bustling atmosphere (which it absolutely is here and one if its key strengths), but the service can border on a little too casual as well.  Thankfully, this only happened slightly and in the main was attentive.

The food options had, served in tapas style (as you are recommended to order 4-5 dishes) were on the whole, pleasing.  In the main, I wouldn’t describe them as intricate dishes, but the white crab linguine and flank steak with truffled cream were both the stars of the food show and indeed a good ‘hit’ was gained on these.  With a 50cl of a doable Chardonnay and a classic Venetian Apperol Spritz each, the bill was a just about acceptable (approx) £38 each for the three at the table, bearing in mind the more finely executed Michelin starred set menus I know there are in comparison, for around the same price with drinks.

All in all though, this is an obviously successful place with originality and social buzz as its key fortés and somewhere to go for that when you are peckish.  A safe bet for food and a safer bet for a decent occasion as the main factor when all considered.

Food Grade: 70%

Octopus with dill
Crab linguine
Fish cakes
Prosciutto Pizzetta
Flank
Pork belly
Vanilla ice cream and grappa shot
Both mixed with espresso = a lovely affogato
The bill for 3

Location

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  • Food Rating - 70%
    70

Summary

Social Atmosphere.
Unique, Venetian interiors.
Pleasant dishes.

Bubbly service but aloof at times.

Restaurant Details

Michelin Stars: N/A

Cuisine: Ventian

Address: 41 Beak Street London W1F 9SB

Website: Polpo (Soho)

Wine List: Click Here

Telephone: +44 20 7734 4479

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About Me

meMy hobby-turned-passion began to evolve during my assignments to London where I was fortunate enough to be able to explore all the Michelin starred restaurants in my spare time and as a result, I gradually built up a catalogue of all these venues.

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