The Giaconda Dining Rooms

The Giaconda Dining Rooms Review

A gastro-landmark with an indie spirit on Denmark Street's Tin Pan Alley—think Bowie, Marley, and The Clash—off Tottenham Court Rd., this super friendly Australian-run dining room has an eclectic menu that is both distinctive and inspired. Chef Paul Merrony describes his food as "French-ish, with a couple of day trips to Italy thrown in," and this relaxed approach is reflected as he nonchalantly sends out mighty starters—creamed shallots with horseradish, crispy pig's trotters, or baked eggs with cream and tomatoes—and a full range of luscious entrées at decent prices. Try the ox tongue, rack of lamb with gnocchi "alla Romana," guinea fowl with prunes, or heartier dishes like veal kidneys, black pudding with potatoes, or ham hock hash with a fried egg on top. Puddings, like Eton Mess or iced nougat, are a snip at £5 to £6.50 a pop.