The Butlers Wharf Chop House | Review

Last weekend Russell and I celebrated his mum's 60th birthday at The Chop House, Butler Wharf. 

Situated next to Tower Bridge, we've walked past the restaurant many times but have never eaten there together before. The Chop House is one of his parent's favourites, and having heard rave reviews, I was excited to see what all the fuss was about.

After a few drinks at the beautifully decorated bar, the very attentive staff seated us at a large table and presented us menus. With the help of a few G&T's and a lot of deliberating, the four of us decided upon different dishes.

As usual, Russell's father and I had an oyster each at the beginning of the meal - with Colchester natives on offer, we couldn't resist. Sweet and silky, they were utterly delicious paired with a crisp Sauvignon blanc (legend has it the Romans once stated Colchester Oyster were the only good thing to come out of Britain, and they weren't far off).  

Rather glutinously I also ordered Brixham crab on toast - the dish was rich, creamy, and satisfying, leaving big shoes for my main to fill. If you're going to order anything at The Chop House, get this - even as an additional starter to share - it's perfection on a plate.

The birthday girl enjoyed a classic prawn cocktail, and unfortunately I didn't manged to get pictures of the men's starters of steamed Shetland mussels and pan seared wood pigeon as they were both ravenous and demolished their food before I could whip out my camera.

For main course I enjoyed the cod loin off the special board which was cooked to perfection. Russell ordered 1/2 a roast chicken, whilst his father enjoyed the fish and chips and mother tucked into a gorgeous looking whole plaice with caper butter.

We could resist dessert, even though we were all stuffed, so I opted for the chocolate orange gateau with a glass of Graham's Six Grapes port (a festive favourite of mine).

 We left thoroughly full but not bloated, which gave us a room for a few more celebratory drinks.

If you're looking for somewhere to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or even enjoy a nice Sunday lunch, I'd highly recommend The Chop House.