Tom's Kitchen Canary Wharf by Tom Aikens (Restaurant)

Top 10 things we learned about Tom’s Kitchen restaurant when we visited:

1) Tom has a bar as well as a kitchen. The words ‘shiny’, ‘city-boy’ and ‘leather’ all accurately portray the financial-centre-vibe. The cigars on sale do a good job of this too.

2) The more surprising words that describe Tom’s bar are ‘unpretentious’, ‘chilled’ and ‘female’. Yes, floating among the sea of blue suits were red lipstick and buoyant heels. Tom’s bar appeals to the fairer sex too. Belonging to this mysterious clan, I can confirm the bar - and its cocktails - certainly appealed to me.

3) Tom has three kitchens. Just an FYI. You can find the other two in Chelsea and at Somerset House.

4) Tom’s has an area bridging the bar and the restaurant that can be used for private dining. Not a bad option for Christmas if you and your gang want somewhere for semi-private festive merriment.

5) The main restaurant is big, the lofty ceilings only adding to the feeling. But on a Thursday night there are plenty of bodies filling the space and plenty of mouths creating a jovial atmosphere.

6) This kitchen is more canteen than county. The low-hanging industrial lights, white-bricked walls and blackboards make this so, not to say that’s a negative.

7) While the general demeanour of Tom’s Kitchen is relaxed, the laidback staff do take wine seriously. If you’re a wine buff then challenge them to an Old World Vs New World wine-off. If you don’t know your Merlot from your Malbec, save yourself from embarrassment and keep quiet.

8) When visiting, I insist you order exactly as I did: scallops with garlic and lemon; duck with celeriac mash and winter greens; sticky toffee pudding; followed by a deep, satisfied smile.

9) Bring your piggy bank as well as your credit card. Tom’s Kitchen looks relaxed but the prices are stiff. However, my ma says you get what you pay for in life and what I had was an extraordinary experience so it stands to reason cost is purse-pinching. She does also say the best things in life are free so maybe don’t call me on this.

10) If you hate the stuffiness of silver service, Tom’s Kitchen is for you. Equally, if you like well-thought-out food which bridges simplicity and genius, Tom’s Kitchen is also for you. And who doesn’t?...read more