DSTRKT (Soho): where a new menu made love in the club

I’ve spent a few decent nights out at DSTRKT when it first launched. The place became a group favourite as it was chic, and - for lack of better term - “happening” back in the day. Its central location meant it was easy for errbody to travel to. Plus, the crowd was decent enough, which meant no creepies ruined our shenanigans despite the touristy location (between Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus).

The club may have witnessed one too many (fun) inebriated nights but DSTRKT’s restaurant never seemed to appeal as a go-to for dining. So when I got an invite to try the new menu, I decided to bring good ol’ clubber B for a revisit.

“Why did we never ever come here to eat?”
“Because they might recognise our silly dancing.”

The restaurant is spacious and it was hard not to compare it to the busy club we remember next door.

The new menu is a spectacle of bar faves inspired by Mediterranean ingredients with a EurAsian flair. The big potential here, though, comes from a selection of Japanese dishes - counter favourites like sashimi, nigiri and their very own sushi rolls.

We were offered some wine to go with a pre-selected menu of their bestsellers. As much as I liked the cocktails in DSTRKT, it was refreshing to have a crisp Sauv Blanc to go with the meal. B and I jokingly said that perhaps our tipple of choice comes better aged in the same way we have. Har.

First up was a taste of their Japanese offering: soft shell crab maki rolls (£10.50) and dragon rolls (£11).

DSTRKT’s dragon rolls are filled with unagi and cucumber, topped with avocado, and drizzled with unagi sauce. They may have been slightly too generous with the avocado, though, which kept sliding. The roll itself was quite tasty and the eel was well cooked.

Our soft shell crab roll housed a big, fat, meaty crustacean to our delight and it tasted fresh!

Whilst I thought the fillings were delicious, I thought both rolls were packed with a wee bit too much rice. With a little refinement, these sushi rolls can definitely ace it.

Next to arrive was possibly my favourite dish of the night: cod fritters encased in kadaifi, the thin vermicelli-like pasta/pastry you see in Mediterranean desserts like baklava. The fish was deliciously fresh; I liked how it was light and the textures were delightful. I was confused to see it served on a bed of wakame, but it gave the dish a nice acidity. This is a definite must-order.

Up next were some hot dishes off the grill.

The seabass fillet meuniere (£19) was quite tasty, if not a tiny bit over for my liking. Served with some toms and topped with ikura, this dish was rather nice.

Now I’m not really a fan of chicken satay skewers (£11) because God knows I’ve had enough bad ones to last me a lifetime. DSTRKT’s version was quite juicy and succulent, though, and I can see how this could be a bar chow fave.

As for dessert, a slice of white choccy cheesecake with fresh berries and compote. I’m usually a dark chocolate kinda gal but man, this dessert was simply lush. Well-balanced and creamy to the core, I devoured this quicker than you can say cheese. I was in love.

Verdict

The restaurant decor is glam in a tasteful way and service is super spot on. The new menu may be a fusion of all sorts, but hey, this could potentially attract groups because there’s something for someone. Kudos to the team for giving the restaurant a new focus, because the club is actually pretty decent. I don’t think they’ll gain any Michelin stars just yet, but I do hope they gain some recognition for trying something new.

Go with friends and line your bellies before hitting off the club next door.

Pin for later:

DSTRKT Restaurant & Lounge
9 Rupert St, London W1D
I was invited to review but ave spend pp is £40

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