The Duck and Waffle has been on my Restaurant Bucket List for some time. I was intrigued that it is open 24/7 and really wanted to try its signature dish: the Duck and Waffle.
Located at 110 Bishopsgate, just up the road from Horizon 22 and The Lookout, the entrance is on street level but you are immediately whisked up 40 floors by a glass elevator. You walk through a corridor which opens up to the bar area with floor to ceiling views on two sides.
The Bar
Unfortunately, the restaurant was fully booked when I could go so I booked a table in the bar area instead. Some of menu is the same but if you can, book at least two weeks in advance to guarantee a seat in the restaurant. The bar stools and shelf looked out over the North of London but it wasn’t particularly comfortable. For the cost, you definitely want the restaurant.
The seating in the bar isn’t pre-determined. If there is space, then ask for seating behind the bar with the view towards the River Thames. There is a building in the way but the best view was in the far right corner as you walk in.
The Food
The signature dish, the confit leg of duck on a waffle with a fried duck egg on top was delicious. The maple syrup and mustard pouring sauce was the perfect compliment; not too sweet or savoury. My husband had the truffle pasta and found it bland and regretted ordering it. We ordered a side of Parmesan and Truffle fries. We needn’t have bothered, we were both full so it was unnecessary. My advice, stick to what they’re good at: Duck and waffles!
The bar itself was a lovely space, perfect for cocktails or a bar snack. You don’t need to book for a drink but to guarantee somewhere to sit, then book via the official website.
Dress Code at The Duck and Waffle
Smart casual is best. I wore smart jeans with white trainers and felt perfectly comfortable. Some people were dressier, especially in the restaurant but there was a real mix of people, some in business attire and others very casual.
In summary, if you manage to get a table in the restaurant then it is definitely worth the cost and experience. If you visit the bar, you are better off ordering a simple snack and having one of their marvellous cocktails!
