Eastway Brasserie review: A slick and Manhattan-styled diner serving classic dishes
This slick and moody Manhattan-style brasserie is tucked inside the illustrious Great Eastern Hotel by Liverpool Street Station. The glossy walnut and polished marble decor suggests Mad Men cool, but Eastway Brasserie turns out to be a more casual lunchtime spot, a charcuterie and grill serving burgers, sandwiches and steaks to hungry commuters. Here's the lowdown:
WHERE? As close to Liverpool Street station as a restaurant can get without selling burgers from the train platforms, Eastway is actually a little tricky to find. It’s situated inside the Andaz Hotel, with an entrance on Liverpool Street itself.
WHO? One of a clutch of Andaz Restaurants in the building following the takeover of the Great Eastern by Hyatt in 2006. Just along the corridor you’ll find the likes of The George, a rah-rah English pub, and 1901, a wine lounge in the hotel’s newly renovated ballroom. It’s the ideal place for a foodie to hide out during a zombie apocalypse, really.
ORDER THIS… The slow cooked beef blade bourguignon arrives on a throne of creamy mash like an ancient Persian king doused in a richly sweet red wine sauce. For something lighter and less metaphorical try the seafood pappardelle: a fresh plate of mussels, clams, squid and prawns in a brightly flavoured pasta tangle.
BUSINESS OR PLEASURE? The small tables are ideal for one on one meetings, and the Tube-adjacent location allows for a speedy trip back to the office or – should the meeting go exceptionally well – a celebratory trip to the zoo.
NEED TO BOOK? Reservations are welcomed at andazdining.com
THE VERDICT… Classic brasserie comfort dishes in stylish surroundings. You won’t find surprises on the menu, but what Eastway does it does well.
ONE MORE THING… The 1901 Wine Lounge is hosting a Franciacorta winery pop-up, offering tasting flights and pairing menus to London Wine Week wristband wearers until Friday.