This Clerkenwell newcomer combines fresh food, simple decor and friendly service for a solidly delicious dining experience.

The Venue
The Larder has high ceilings, stained wood shelving and thick wooden tables that would comfortably seat twice as many as they’re set for. In fact, one table in the centre of the restaurant looks as if it would seat about 16 comfortably.

Next door is The Larder’s shop, which sells breakfasts – everything from pots of yoghurt and fruit to bacon and sausage sandwiches – and lunch, a selection of sandwiches made to order on bread that’s baked in the kitchens. Everything’s freshly made and priced at about the same as chain sandwich places. Perfect if you just want to try it out for a quick bite.

The Atmosphere
With a laid back but not quite casual atmosphere, The Larder can fit in with just about every situation, from a business lunch to a weekend treat. The diners are made up of the restaurant’s Clerkenwell neighbours, confirming the fact that the ambience is just trendy enough without being too posh.

The Food
Much like the decor, the food is solid and not overly elaborate. Located just up the road from Smithfields Market, there’s plenty of amazing meat options on the menu, but fans of fish and vegetarians are refreshingly well catered for as well.

Starters include perfectly cooked baby squid mixed with prawns and asparagus and baked eggs with chorizo and manchego cheese – comfort foodie heaven. For mains, try the baked sea bass or the salmon on top of linguini, flecked with basil and and accompanied with a tomato. The dish is simply cooked, without overloading on spices, sauce or oil, so that the flavours truly stand out. Desserts are along the likes of sweet cheesecakes and hot chocolate pudding, a ball of chocolate cake filled with hot melted chocolate sauce. If you’re feeling too stuffed after all the generous main portions, you can always go for the selection of fresh fruit or cheese.

The Drink
The bar is separated off to the side, where you can sample from their cocktail list which is filled with all the old standards. As for when you're eating in the restaurant, the sizeable wine list is broken up into separate flavours, handy if you’re not sure what to choose.

The Last Word
With food as fresh as it gets and a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere, head for The Larder. It definitely beats rustling around in your own pantry.

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