In this post, I'm going to show you photos of scrumptious food and tell you about a London restaurant that you should definitely visit. Trust me, the food is enough of a reason to visit Brigade Bar and Bistro. But there is another important reason to visit and support this restaurant. It's because Brigade goes Beyond Food.
Simon Boyle is the chef behind this project and he has some pretty hefty partners backing this venture. In 2004, Simon decided to start doing more with his time, talents and resources and started a foundation.
Beyond Food runs programs that support homeless people stuck in the "no job - no home" cycle. They are trained in life skills and cooking and given the opportunity to find employment in the catering industry. Not jut a hand out but a leg up. Big difference.
Over 400 homeless people have been changed by Brigade and the Beyond Food Foundation. They've employed over 50 apprentices and helped most of them go from no job to gainful employment.
I was proud to be invited to join them for a meal and to learn more about the venture.
Brigade Bar and Bistro opened in 2011 in an old Fire Station on Tooley Street near London Bridge.
It's home to the social enterprise bistro and bar with private dining, events space and a cookery school.
It was packed the night we visited and had a great, festive feel.
Once we sat down to this meal, I was convinced that Brigade is a pretty special place.
Homemade Brigade Breads, Netherend Butter and Olives.
Emma had the gluten free option and loved it. Be sure to check out her review of Brigade.
Everyone at the table was nice enough to let me take photos as our starters and mains arrived.
South Coast Seafood Cocktail topped with Cromer Crab and Chase Vodka Sauce
I had the Vitality Salad and I have to say it's the best salad I've ever had. Honest.
Barley, Pumpkin, Soya Beans, Empire Spices, Sunflower Seeds
and magic dressing that according to Emma tasted like sunshine.
I completely agree. It was fabulous. Next to the mains.
From their "Recipes for Life" Menu, the hand cut beef Carpaccio with semi-dried figs,
truffled watercress and raspberries.
Emma had the daily special of Pork Saltim Bocca with grilled polenta and nectarine.
Confit of Gressingham Duck with spinach, dandelion and rhubarb sauce.
Check out this beautiful burger! I have to go back and try this.
The Brigade Burger is loaded with braised oxtail and spiced chutney.
As if that wasn't enough, it's served with cheesy chips.
I had the Fish and Chips and it rates right up there with some of the best I've had.
We were discussing at the table that you can judge a restaurant based on the quality of their fish & chips.
Brigade has it just right. Crunchy batter with big chunks of white flaky fish, not greasy at all.
I was stuffed and close to passing up dessert. I'm so glad that I didn't.
The Cappuccino Creme Brulee was such a surprising treat.
Cappuccino foam over a perfectly cooked creme brulee. It was lovely.
Really great food with a much higher purpose.
If you're ever over by London Bridge, stop into the Brigade Bar & Bistro for a terrific meal
that goes way beyond food.
So salad or burger? Which one looks the most enticing to you?
