Rock and Rose, Richmond, Restaurant Review

By Vicky Smith on November 27th 2011

Girls love glamour, and Lorraine Angliss – proprietor Rock & Rose in Richmond – knows this. That’s why, when you enter her third restaurant (the other two being the much-loved Annie’s sites in Chiswick and Barnes), you’re faced with chandeliers, flowers-a-plenty, stylish sofas and a restaurant that oozes style, sparkle and super fun times.

 I’d gone along with a friend who was in London to stay for the weekend.  She’d faced all sorts of traumas en route – swans on the line (true story), a perilous moment in a buffet car near Exeter, and some mass negotiations on the underground from Paddington to the safe, leafy surrounds of Richmond. Luckily, a seat at the bar and (much-needed by this point) Rock & Rose martini were waiting. Thirty seconds, and large sip, later, she quickly announced that the cocktails were worth the trip alone – fruity and chilled, with a shot of champagne on the side. Fun and fabulous.

But, of course, we  weren’t just there to drink (as much as ‘swans on the line’ may lead to such a reaction). Food was a-calling. In fitting with the décor, flavours are big, bold and seriously tempting – there’s an Asian influence, with dishes such as miso cod, chilli salt squid and lamb shank Massaman, and also a section for grills – burgers, steaks and the like, so most appetites are catered for.  On paper, the idea could be that a girl may opt for something light and feminine, whilst her date tucks into a slightly more substantial plate. And it is a nice idea, but one that, this time, we chose to ignore (ahh, the colder months are a perfect excuse to indulge).

In-between more cocktails, we sampled starters of goat’s cheese - soft and warm within a walnut crust and served with a spiced pear – and grilled halloumi bruschetta with mushrooms and figs. Lovely autumnal combinations. To follow, grilled chicken with lemon aioli for my Devonshire companion, and fillet steak for me. Both were great, but I can tell you from previous experience that the cod is a must-try too.

Eeking out our stay, we went for the sticky toffee pudding and cheesecake for dessert, before heading out (slightly wobbly) into the night, and a swan-free journey home.

NB - If you’re ladies who lunch, there are great daytime offers available at Rock & Rose too – take a seat on the heated terrace and watch the world go buy, or curl up on a fabulous pink velvet sofa. Either way, we’ll probably see you there…

Starters from £5.95

Mains from £10.95 (Vicky Smith)

Members Comments

• Comment by: louise_hodgson 28 November 2011 - 17:14

  I went to Rock & Rose for my Birthday with a group of friends a few of weeks ago and we all had an amazing time. Beautiful decor, great atmosphere and the food was divine. I would highly recommend it!
  
  Thanks for a great night x

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