High above the streets of London, encapsulated inside one of the capital’s newest landmarks, lies the Gherkin’s very own restaurant – 30 St Marys Axe. For panoramic views across London and quality cuisine, this members’ restaurant offers everything.

The Venue
The Gherkin towers over East Central, dwarfing all of the nearby buildings. Cutting a striking figure over the London skyline, the impressive stature and architecture of this building is evident even at the doorway, standing as it does 40 stories high. Inside, the building is modern and shining with a large and undeniably grand front reception desk. In order to enter the restaurant, you first need to pass through security checkpoints. After announcing yourself at the front desk, you enter an airport-style system where all bags and belongings are X-rayed. Just past here are the impressive lifts. With more than enough to ensure you have a minimal wait, you first need to travel to level 34. The speed of these lifts are so high your ears pop and, within seconds, the doors open onto the higher escehlons of the building. Here you move across the corridor to another set of lifts, which take you up into the highest levels of the building - the restaurant on level 39.

Prepare to be awestruck. Forget the views of the Eye or the tops of many of London’s highest buildings, The Gherkin dwarfs them all. In the glass covered top of this building is the dining area. There are no walls, just a huge cylinder of glass. Look up and you’ll see through the top of the building to the moon above. There aren’t many areas in London where you can spy a panoramic horizon - this is one of them. Who knew London was so stunning and so romantic? With the decor of the restaurant kept very dark - even the tablecloths are black - you’ll feel like you’re actually sitting in the sky. But make no mistake, this isn’t a dark and drab place, it’s simply magical.

The Atmosphere
30 St Marys Axe is undeniably romantic. However, there’s no coming here unless you work in the building or become a member of the restaurant. As such, everyone is comfortable and relaxed, and the restaurant isn’t crammed in just to make money. Most are regulars and there’s a mix of businessmen and women from the building, and members bringing their friends to show off the incredible views. This is great for a relaxing and stunning meal. Feeling like you’re flying above London, the day to day drudgery below melts away - perfect for the end of a hard week.

The staff are particularly well trained, friendly and professional. Offering suggestions on the menu and a top-class wine matching service, you’ll never be left wanting. However, you’ll also have sufficient space to enjoy yourself and not be crowded.

The Food
With such a perfect location, St Marys Axe would be forgiven for slacking off with the food. However, they have put just as much effort into the dishes as they have creating the perfect surroundings. Since the people who come here are all regulars, many dine here two to three times a week, and to ensure their taste buds are always kept tingling every Friday the menu changeover occurs. They always ensure there’s one veggie option and a balanced mix of fish and meat dishes. And with prices being set (2 courses to 3 courses at around £45 per person or a taster menu for £65), it won’t break the bank.

Starters include dishes such as a smoked salmon salad, which won’t appear as you expect. Instead of your usual lettuce and cucumber, the thin and delicate layers of salmon sit alongside red berries with a sweet and fruity sauce drizzled over the top. Although it’s not gastronomically challenging, the taste is pleasant and light if a little too steeped in berry flavours. The salmon is soft and fresh and works well with the gentle popping of the berries in your mouth. Alternatively, meat dishes include options like quail, which is tender and juicy and comes with a sweet apricot sauce to gently balance the flavours.

It’s the mains where this restaurant truly excels. Dishes are stunningly presented and look tasty as well as artistic. Choices like the monkfish surpass all expectations and is meaty, fresh and comes away in wonderful chunks with a fork. Wrapped in ham, the flavours intertwine in such a way so that the light fish isn’t overpowered by the saltier ham. The chorizo on the side is also wondrous, with none of the chewy fats that can sometimes be found in this meat. If you prefer a purely fish dish, then try dishes like the sea bream. Again, the fish is fresh and meaty and the textures are light and flavoursome. Coming with a butternut squash sauce, the slightly sweet and gooey addition works with the fish to add another dimension to each mouthful. A side of creamy mash is the icing on the cake being heavy on the cream (not good for the diet, great for the tastebuds!) and literally melting in the mouth.

There’s a decent selection of desserts including chocolate dishes, fruits and toffee choices. However, the cheese selection is highly recommended. If ordered, your waiter will bring you a platter of cheeses to choose from and will explain the textures, tastes and origins of each one. You can also choose from a range of crackers and bread to enjoy with it. Ranging from continental blues to Irish cheddars and creamy, melt in the mouth varieties, you’d be hard pushed not to find a selection to tempt you. And with a quick history lesson, it becomes an experience rather than just a dish. Divine.

The Drink
There’s an excellent wine selection at 30 St Marys Axe. World reds and whites dominate, broken down by region and flavour. The well-versed and passionate sommelier also offers a wine matching service where each course is paired with the ideal glass of vino. This service is highly recommended as it’s the only way to make the most of the flavours of the drink and food. Prices range from the reasonable to expensive, and there’s Champagne to choose from if you’re out to impress – perfect as an aperitif, be sure to try the rose. There’s also the resurgence of the dessert wine, now coming back into fashion. Or, if you’re enjoying the cheese platter, port is recommended. A great touch is the long list of teas to help you digest. From green tea to Chinese teas and Earl Grey, the list is lengthy and impressive – the attention to detail being evident right up until you leave.

The Last Word
If you’re after impressing a loved one or a client, this is about as close to perfection as you can get. With the most breathtaking views of London you’ll have ever witnessed, superb service and delicious food at reasonable prices, it has to be experienced to be believed.

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