Review: The Hill Bar & Brasserie – Haverstock Hill, NW3

We recently headed to gorgeous North London, to visit the Hill Bar and Brasserie.

The Hill was relaunched in 2011 and has rapidly become a neighbourhood favourite. Experienced Restaurateur, Michael Parker had brought the most refined elements of North American dining to Belsize Park, inspired by his origins from the Pacific Northwest. The Hill, led by General Manager James Drake, promises seasonal produce and service with a smile – so we were interested to find out more.

The beginning of February may not have been the ideal time for me to visit – as I was still being good (or trying to) on my New Years diet, promising myself that I would resist the urge to drink and eat only grilled fish and veg (and therefore pretty much starving and verging on miserable). However, I had planned a day out, treating an ex boyfriend (who is now a very good friend), whose birthday I’d forgotten at the beginning of the year. OOOPS!

As we arrived at the Hill, we were offered a glass of champagne or a cocktail. This was the first test of my will power – and one which I failed miserably! It would have been rude to refuse though…wouldn’t it?

We were sat at out table and perused the menu, which was very impressive with lots of variety, and in the spirit of being good, I reluctantly went for a salad to start. I’m not silly though, and made my dinner date order the ribs so I could try them. Cunning, I know.

While we waited for our starters, our waiter brought us a selection of hot bread, roasted garlic and a herby oil which was delicious. The ribs were lush and as salads go, it was very tasty and lots of it!

After a couple of glasses of my favourite Marlborough wine my main arrived, and looked mouth-wateringly good. A big steak came to the table on a massive wooden slab, complete with chips, roasted garlic, a stack of onion rings…. the works! The steak was cooked perfectly to my liking (I insist on it being medium-well, I can’t stand bloody meat) with a perfect crust on the outside but still tender and tasty.

We followed our main course with a White Chocolate Creme Brûlée and Eton Mess which were both to die for. Just look at the picture above. Yum. I think this may be what you consider a diet cheat day??

I was really impressed with The Hill. The decor was lovely, great service, very good food, and fab wine! The restaurant is situated in a gorgeous area, and I’m thinking up a few excuses to return…I already have my eye on the Sashimi for next time, and will make sure I re-visit when I’m completely off the diet.

Overall, as a venue for a date, or dinner with friends, The Hill is highly recommended.

Costs: Around £30 per head for 3 courses (without wine).

Best Bits:

• Outside Space
• Large Wine List
• Seasonal Menu
• Strong History
• Great Date Venue

by Tracy Lawrence

Food Photos by Tracy Lawrence / Exterior Photo via Emms Publicity

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Tracy

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