We Tried The 7-Course Tasting Menu At A Sky-High Restaurant In Canary Wharf

Some restaurants boast stunning interiors from world-renowned designers, some have a menu to die for... but Bōkan? It has it all. Located on the 37th floor of a Canary Wharf high-rise, this stunning eatery showcases breathtaking views of the Thames and Central London. And on top of that, it has an amazing menu to match, touting European influences and innovative dishes. So, I grabbed my other half and we made our way up to this sky-high spot for the signature seven-course dining experience.

Swoon.

It would be rude not to start off our meal with a cocktail, so we hopped into the lift and made our way to the 38th floor for a drink at the bar. This haunt oozed class with elegant interiors, such as wood features and gold touches. While taking in the city scenes from the floor-to-ceiling windows, we quaffed a Ruby Horizon (£14) made from Bombay Murcian, Maraschino, lavender and a glug of pink prosecco. This pretty pour was served in a flute and had moreish floral notes. We also tried a Spicy Fifty (£14), a sharp and refreshing vodka-based cocktail, mixed with elderflower cordial and a wonderful combination of lime and chilli. Ice cold to touch, red hot to taste.

A cocktail with a view? Yes, please.

After our tasty serves, we made our way to the restaurant and were met with a modern dining space flaunting industrial-chic vibes. We then had a little look at the seven-course menu (£99 per person), all while sipping on some wine recommended by the friendly sommelier - I opted for the Portuguese Esporao Reserva Branco (£11.50), while my date plumped for a Domaine Gour de Chaule (£17), from the Gigondas area in the southern Rhône region of France. 

First up was a smoky sweet heart cabbage, accompanied by traditional sauerkraut and a delicious burnt mayo. A real favourite of ours, this dish has redefined the way I think about cabbage. A masterpiece. Soon after, we were treated to a light and flaky cod cheek, matched perfectly with ras el hanout and a lemon condiment. Incredible pairing; like a designer-brand take on cod and curry sauce.

Expect attention to detail here.

Our third plate was a foie gras escalope, laced with a flambé mandarin. The foie gras was not something I would normally opt for, but the flavours balanced well. We then moved back to fish, with a delightful fillet of John Dory, paired with cauliflower steak and pickles. The sour, acidic pickles worked in perfect contrast to the fish. The final 'main course' was a real hit with my other half. Cooked to perfection, the venison queen pear had a firm yet delicate texture, dished up with sweet ginger spices that teasingly paved the way to dessert.

Almost as a 'pre-dessert', we were given a single scoop of quince sorbet. This had a gentle citrus flavour and melted in the mouth beautifully, really whetting the appetite for the star that followed. As soon as we were presented with the menu, we were immediately intrigued by the Mystic Fig and it really didn't disappoint. This decadent mousse arrived in a chocolate case in the shape of the fruit and was complimented by a sharp centre. It also sat on a bed of crumble, which added a great texture. Yum.

The DesignMyNight Digest 

Not only was the food fabulous at Bōkan Canary Wharf, but the views were also pretty epic. I really enjoyed this dining experience, as it was a great way to explore the chef's specialities and favourites in bite-size pieces. Although, dinner did take nearly three and a half hours, so keep that in mind if you have evening plans.