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All aboard for a great night out
I HAVE always loved this ship moored alongside the Victoria Embankment since 1973. Its prime location – just below the Millenium (Hungerford) Bridge and almost opposite the London Eye – offers unique views of London’s most stunning landmarks.
Constant traffic on the Thames provides more action in an ever changing setting. Usually spots such as this one are lacking in food quality as patrons are expected to book just for the privilege of enjoying the view. But this is not the case with Hispaniola – their Head Chef Ba Diakhaby has created an excellent menu with a Mediterranean twist.
You board the ship from the embankment and straight away you are transported into another world. You almost expect it to take you on a journey up the Thames.
Instead you are welcomed into the bar where you can enjoy a drink and study the menu. We had a Kir (£3.45) and settled for lunch choosing from the a la carte menu.
The Terrine of Venison on Melba toast with Bordeaux Jelly Sauce (£5.25) and the Rosette of Smoked Salmon decorated with Asparagus tips – the thinnest and loveliest asparagus I have ever seen – and Lime Vinaigrette (£8.50) were beautifully presented.
The bread baked on the premises was hot and their house wine Vina Sol (£13) was dry and served at the perfect temperature. They have a very good wine list for those wishing a more adventurous experience.
My dining companion had the slow roasted Dorset Lamb with a Confit of Shallot, Sour Cream and Crunchy Potatoes – shaped into a lovely tall cake – and Bordeaulaise Sauce which she pronounced was just the way it should be, tender and very tasty (£18.95).
My Beef Stroganoff served with Herb Rice and Fresh Vegetables (£14.50) had a Mediterranean influence. It was different but simply delicious. Different because it tasted as if the slices of beef had been chargrilled and then simmered in a rich brown sauce with wild mushrooms (£18.95).
We shared the Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter sauce. As good as the old fashioned home made ones that take so long to prepare. (£5.50).
This is an ideal venue for all occasions – whether it is lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, or tapas for two or more.
Their Christmas menu is now available until Christmas Day lunch on December 25.
They offer a New Year’s Eve party at £135 per person which includes a four-course dinner, half a bottle of Pouilly Fume or Coto de Imaz, a glass of Champagne at midnight and dancing until 2am.
Their resident pianist plays in the evenings from Wednesdays to Saturdays.
RS Hispaniola
Victoria Embankment WC2
020 7321 0547
Booking hotline
020 7839 3011 |
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