Jazzgir | Mediterranean-Jazz Restaurant Review

  

Last week Russell and I were invited to Jazzgir, the latest Mediterranean restaurant to arrive on the London food scene. 

Situated on the serene waterfront of Canary Wharf’s Harbour Exchange Square, just a 5 minuet walk form the main tube station, the restaurant offers a little something for everyone; whether you want to enjoying a relaxing waterside drink or a lively night out!

With a menu that reflects the diversity of the European coastline, the restaurant pairs fresh flavours with the vibrant sounds of Jazz.

The interior features warm, neutral colours combined with golden notes, wooden features and leather sofas, providing a welcome escape from the harsh lines and grey palette of city life.

Every evening Jazzgir’s live music starts with acoustic piano from 5pm, with live jazz bands performing from 7pm followed by a DJ set until late, allowing guests to kick-back and enjoy a vibrant and lively evening.

Russell and I were greeted by the soft tune of a piano when we arrived around 6:30pm and later enjoyed a fantastic performance by The London Belles. We're not usually keen on singing performances throughout dinner as we have found them dominating, but the up-beat and unique post modern twist to their set was mesmerising.

After sipping on cocktails and soaking up the atmosphere we ordered food from the small but varied menu.

I ordered the Burrata, Heritage Tomato and Basil Pesto salad, which was delicious. The soft and creamy texture of the cheese paired beautifully with the fresh and slightly crisp tomatoes to make a dynamite of a duo. I added a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the summer produce.

 

Russell tucked into the Tuna Carpaccio served with pressed cucumber, white asparagus puree, pea shoots and a martini dressing. Strangely when it was served our waiter advised us to eat all of the components together otherwise the dish would 'taste bland', however we found it to be light and refreshing on a rather humid July evening. The crunchy deep fried shallot shards gave the dish much needed texture, whilst the pea shoots injected sweetness. 

 

 Although the restaurant is not famed as a steak restaurant, our main course of Ribeye with sautè new potatoes was cooked to perfection and would recommend to any city dwelling carnivore (although we found the side salad a little bland/unnecessary).

 

However, the fresh pappardelle with rabbit ragu and salty Kalamata Olives was the best dish of the evening - if you're planning to visit you NEED to order this!

It offers an indulgent and rich Italian experience without the usual heaviness of a pasta dish.

 

Dessert was an extremely indulgent Tiramisu (can you tell I enjoyed it?) and sweet, light Baklava oozing with honey. Both were delightful and finished our meal off beautifully. 

 The restaurant describes itself as fine dining, however Russell and I didn't agree with this description. The term fine dining brings to mind crisp white table cloths, waiters in tuxedos and the finest in food, service and atmosphere.

Although the interior décor is beautiful and the food is good, we would describe the offering as well cooked food, attentive (if not, a little overboard) service in an environment both foodies and casual dinners can enjoy.