Suffering a brisk, winter walk from the tube, I genuinely didn’t know what to expect of my evening in Canary Wharf. A location that divides opinion amongst many a Londoner, could a rooftop bar be the thing that brings us all together when it comes to this clinical spot? I headed over to Capeesh to find out.
The Venue and Atmosphere
Praising the Capeesh gods for all things central heating, especially in a month like November, not only were cockles warmed as soon as we walked in, they were met by a cheery and humble beat of garage music alongside a clientele of couples and colleagues alike; in a business district with skyline views? I’d expect no less.
While Capeesh might have felt like bumping into an old friend, they clearly hadn’t scrimped when it came to interiors. Boasting a modern Italian decor with heaps of class (and window glass), we were glad that we had ditched our all-too-casual trainers for smarter soles. We’re not saying that Capeesh is a slave to suits, but it’s certainly no place to dine in your dungarees.
While the restaurant is a treat, the Sky Bar is something to remember.
The Food and Drink
Separated between both bar and restaurant, Capeesh promises the allure of classic cocktails and Italian dining alike. Smaller starters in the restaurant space came in the shape of olives and the rosmarino foccacia at £5. Both classic and humble, the garlic and mozzarella on the flatbread boasted the perfect unity of flavours.
Choosing our main proved to be a difficult feat, as the vast menu is home to a dedicated roster of Italian favourites. I finally settled on the Sirloin Steak (£20), while my girlfriend opted for the Apollo pizza (£12) with chicken, mushroom and truffle oil. While my steak was divine, owing to the melt in the mouth texture, the truffle oil on the Apollo pizza gave the plate an allure that was second to none. Alongside this, we also shared truffle fries (sensing a theme here), a beer and a Pornstar Martini at £10. While seeming an easy classic, the martini was well put together with a bite that was both sweet, yet edging on tart.
Clearing out our palates with a Limoncello, we were finally ready to head to the Sky Bar. 48 levels later, it’s clear that London’s rooftop bars have quite the contender. Boasting magnificent buildings on a moody midnight backdrop, this icy cold balcony was nothing short of romantic. We listened to the chatter from Londoners as we sunk into the snug sofas and chose our next drink. I had the Mojito (£11) whilst my partner had the Capeesh (£11), and while both delicious and perfectly presented, it was an Espresso Martini that would steal the show thanks to its rounded flavour and rich flavour.
Italian classics are the heart and soul of the menu at Capeesh.
Summary
From the decor, ambiance and breath-taking views, down to a frankly top notch selection of cocktails, it’s pretty fair to say i’m hooked on Capeesh, even if it is a trundle to Canary Wharf. I beckon you to top up your Oyster card and try it, you won’t be disappointed.
