Nestled at the corner of St Katharine Dock, the recently opened Living Room offers comforting food, quality cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere, all of which draws you in and makes it hard for you to leave.

The Venue
Almost blacked-out windows and a sleek-but-tiny sign don’t exactly stand out, but they do evoke a feeling of exclusivity that makes you want to go in. Walk through the big glass doors and the bar is straight ahead, with booths and high-top tables either side. A small restaurant seating area is sectioned off with foliage, with wooden tables and chairs, booths lining the back wall and views into the kitchen completing the scene.

The Atmosphere
Dim lighting, dark wooden furniture and trendy décor are luxurious and inviting while, on regular nights, the delightful sounds of a pianist helps you to relax. The bartenders will happily help you choose a drink if you like, but some staff seem to be still finding their feet.

The Food
The menu is enticing, with something for everyone. Small plates, like the flavour-packed chorizo sausage pan-fried in chilli and red wine hit the spot if you’re feeling peckish and, as they’re priced between £1.95 and £4.75, they won’t break the bank. For something to share there’s gooey, rosemary-baked Camembert with pear chutney and ciabatta (£7.95), which is truly mouthwatering.

Starters include beer-battered tiger prawns with sweet chilli sauce and a fiery dollop of wasabi (£6.95), which is a pleasing mix of crispy coating, tender prawns and tangy sauce, while mains include a creamy and satisfying lasagne of spinach, goat’s cheese and butternut squash (£10.45), and grilled sea bass with Grey Goose vodka and caviar sauce on a bed of samphire (£15.95) – a bit of a departure from the rest of the menu.

The Drink
Cocktails steal the show here and bartenders delight in shaking up a storm from the classics to the contemporary. Everything is made from scratch, mostly with fresh herbs and fruit, and presented with elegance and finesse. The juicy bramble (£5.95) is so moreish it’ll be gone before you know it and the Woodford Reserve, gingerbread and maraschino cherry syrup, vermouth and angostura bitters of the gingerbread Manhattan (£7.95) create a perfect blend of spicy and smooth. The fruity fizz of the porn star martini (£8.25) is a favourite with the ladies, while men can challenge each other to remain standing after an atomic daiquiri (£6.95) – the Wray & Nephew over-proof rum will knock your socks off.

Wines start from £3.35 for a small glass and a variety of bottled and draught beers start from £3.35.

The Last Word
Great for a date or a night out with friends, the latest Living Room is sure to become popular with anyone who comes across it, in particular the swathes of local office workers who decamp to the dock once the working day is done.

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