Parlour

Nestled in the heart of North West London, Parlour has transformed from a traditional pub into a charming pub restaurant that radiates warmth and character. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was greeted by a delightful ambiance filled with a retro-modern mix of eclectic furniture that instantly made me feel at home. The staff were incredibly welcoming and I loved the Beano decor dotted around the restaurant area.

One of the highlights of my lunchtime experience was the Desperate Dan Pie, a special inspired by the beloved comic strip character. Priced at just £10, it stood out as exceptional value, especially when I compared it to similar dishes priced at £17 at Mad O’Rourke’s pie factory. This was a fantastic introduction to the menu, which features an array of all-day breakfast options, snacks, sharers, and hearty main courses.

To start, I opted for the soup of the day—tomato—served with soda bread and salad for just £7. As the steaming bowl was placed before me, I couldn’t help but admire its home-made quality. The soup was rich and flavourful, enhanced by vine tomatoes, onions, and cream, delivering a comforting warmth. The soda bread was equally delightful, boasting a lovely consistency that only needed a sprinkle of pepper to elevate its taste. Simple but delicious.

When the Desperate Dan Pie arrived, my eyes widened at its impressive size and the golden, all-butter pastry. Though it wasn’t fully encased, the pie was a marvel to behold, topped with bone marrow, parsley, and breadcrumbs. With each bite, I was met with tender meat and a rich, savoury gravy that left me craving more. The buttery texture of the pastry was the perfect complement to the intense beef flavour, making this dish a true standout.

For dessert, I chose the Bramley Apple Crumble with custard, also priced at £7. As it arrived hot and beautifully presented with salted caramel chocolates, I couldn’t wait to dig in. The crumble was wonderfully buttery, with a delightful combination of sweet and tart apples that danced on my palate. The custard, rich and velvety, added the perfect finishing touch to this indulgent treat. I can confidently say it was one of the best desserts I’ve ever had.

Reflecting on my meal at Parlour, I was truly impressed by the exceptional quality of the food and the welcoming atmosphere. The total bill for two courses and the service charge came to £27.56, which was excellent value all things considered, although I did find the service charge a bit excessive.

In closing, I wholeheartedly award Parlour a perfect 10 out of 10. If you’re searching for a memorable dining experience in North West London, I highly recommend visiting Parlour. You won’t be disappointed! Don’t forget, if you want to order the pie for £10 – make sure you go on a Thursday!