Rating: GGGGG
Sam's Brasserie & Bar is the perfect place to review if you're a little jaded, just like we are at Gunpowder; while we've eaten in some pretty fabulous places (most of which are reviewed on this site), we've also eaten in some pretty dire establishments that aren't even worthy of publication (we won't bore you with the details, but drab décor and re-heated food does not make for interesting reading!).
Found in West London, Sam's Brasserie takes all that we love about our favourite Central London restaurants (gorgeous gastro-pub-style food and stylish interiors), and leaves out all the bad bits (snooty staff and space you couldn't swing a cat in). Having been reviewed by the likes of AA Gill, we felt somewhat humbled to be invited there; after all, how could our meagre words compare to those of someone who's been reviewing seemingly since the womb? Nevertheless, we took it all in our stride and rocked up to Sam's notebook in-hand. It pleased us to see that the décor was spot-on; understated, yet elegant, with a wooden interior that features large, breakfast-style tables with a mix of casual bench seating and red-cushioned chairs. It's all very light and airy, reflective, perhaps, of the venue's non-stuffy atmosphere. Tables are split across two levels, with an eclectic mix of art hanging on the walls and a neo-industrial feel to its furniture and fixtures - fitting, considering Sam's is set inside what used to be a paper factory. While there is no background music, there is live jazz on Sundays for couples who don't have too much to say to each other.
Having soaked up our surroundings, it was time to soak up the booze; we ordered a bottle of 2008 Alameda Merlot, which was rich, smooth and possibly the best wine we've tasted in a review thus far. And at just under £20, it was exceptional value. The menu itself is printed on the place-mat, which, despite being a little Slug & Lettuce for our liking, seemed to work given the casual surroundings. The menu features an extensive range of European dishes, many of which change daily. We ordered the Roasted Red Pepper, Goat's Cheese and Basil tart, served with a cluster of rocket leaves on a gleaming white plate. Creamy and full of taste, complete with a subtle vinaigrette, it was a good start to a great meal. This was followed up a short while later with the Rack of Lamb, which was cooked to pink-perfection and fell off the bone in tender chunks. We do, however, think three lamb cutlets is too few to be called a 'rack' - the portion size could certainly have been bulked up some. For dessert, a selection of sorbets was enough - the Dulce de Leche was particularly flavoursome.
Sam's isn't only good for dinner, either; in fact, it's a pretty great place to come for a business brunch or lunch, particularly as it has free WiFi access. The bar is a great hangout, too, whether after work with a few colleagues or at the weekend for a booze-up amongst friends. The bar snacks go above and beyond what is expected of a bar, with tasty treats on offer such as Maldon Rock Oysters and Merquez Sausages. Hidden on a pretty lane just off Chiswick High Road, we almost didn't want to tell you about Sam's. Then again, with food this good it would be a sin not to.
www.samsbrasserie.co.uk / Images: Sam's Brasserie & Bar
