The Drop - Kings Cross, London

We've said it before and we'll say it again. Everything that the Barrafina brothers (and henchman deluxe Crispin Somerville) touch turns to gold. The Drop was a new type of venture from them after the successful roll out of Barrafina, Quo Vadis and El Pastor. Focusing on a broadly British culinary palate prepared by superstar chef Karan Ghosh (formerly head chef of Thomas's at Burberry) and an exceptional wine list overseen by manager Sam Orbaum and owners, the restaurant is excelling on all fronts. We stopped in on a sunny summery Wednesday. 

The Drop is situated in Coal Drops Yard in a Victorian brickwork arch, just across from the boisterous outdoor terrace of sister restaurant Plaza Pastor. Making your way inside, you'll walk beyond an oyster bar brimming with ice and bivalves. To counterbalance the rather industrial cavern vibe of curvilinear bar brick, they've utilised warm terracotta tiling and soft lighting to create a sort of Dickens-goes-to-the-Riviera ambience. All in, it's a beautiful place to crack a bottle or two.

The menu pays homage to Great Britain with an array of oysters, cheeses, charcuterie and small plates. Asparagus with poached egg and hollandaise is an easy win, as are fresh starters such as stracciatella with courgette, beans, mint and basil or charred squid with puy lentils, tropea onion, chilli and coriander. For large plates, lamb rump with courgettes, smoked aubergine and pepper relish is a hearty dish, with lighter options such as chicken with artichoke and Berkswell salad.

The Drop is a great place to post up after office. Well worth a visit if you're in the King's Cross neighbourhood.