Songbird, a modern restaurant in Canary Wharf that opened to the public in May, is impressing diners with its British menu and striking setting. Formerly exclusive to guests of the Troubadour Theatre, which is currently showing The Hunger Games: On Stage, the venue is now accessible to all. Our reviewer, Emily Davison, reports that the experience left her eager to return.
A Stylish Venue with Panoramic Views
The restaurant features a sophisticated interior with a circular bar, green marble tables, and floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Canary Wharf. The ambiance is described as both modern and welcoming, setting the stage for a memorable meal.
The menu celebrates British dishes with a broad mix of options. Offerings include devilled eggs with trout roe, braised beef rarebit, pan-roasted cod, and dry-aged sirloin steak, alongside a selection of oysters. The drinks menu presents a varied mix of classic and house cocktails.
Cocktails and Starters That Shine
Our reviewer sampled several signature cocktails. The Songbird combines London dry gin, elderflower cordial, dry vermouth, and lemon bitters for a light, floral drink. The Bramble Garden blends sloe gin, blackberry liqueur, lemon, and fresh berries, delivering a refreshing, fruit-forward profile. The Amber Orchard mixes Calvados, ginger liqueur, and apple cider reduction for warm orchard fruit flavors with a hint of spice. The Earl Grey Martini, made with Earl Grey-infused vodka, Cointreau, and lemon juice, offers a fragrant twist on a classic.
Highlights from the nibbles included the Soda Bread & Brown Butter, described as simple but satisfying, and the Tempura Cod, which arrived crisp and golden with confit garlic aioli and a squeeze of lemon. Standout starters included the Cheddar Croquettes, served with confit garlic aioli, and the Braised Beef Rarebit, which paired slow-cooked beef cheek with rich English cheddar sauce on a crumpet.
Mains and Desserts That Impress
For mains, our reviewer chose the Lobster Roll, filled with lobster, dill mayonnaise, caviar, and charred lemon, and the Pan-Roasted Cod, served with cavolo nero, English sparkling wine butter sauce, and caviar. On the side, the Mac & Cheese with toasted garlic crumb provided a comforting accompaniment.
The review praised the restaurant's flavor, portion sizes, and service, with staff keen to offer recommendations on food and drink pairings. The soda bread had a unique flavor with subtle sweetness, while the braised beef rarebit practically melted in the mouth.
Despite being incredibly full, dessert was unmissable. The apple and blackberry crumble was wonderfully autumnal, perfectly sweet, and topped with a crumble that was described as nothing short of perfection.
In her review, Emily Davison concluded, "The term 'blown away' isn't one I often find myself writing, but after trying Songbird, I genuinely was. From the beautifully presented dishes to the exceptional service and striking setting, this is one restaurant that will take some topping."
