The Admiral Codrington, Chelsea — Her Favourite Food & Travel

Sep 28

Sep 28 The Admiral Codrington, Chelsea

Style Points: 3/5
Price: £££
Overall: 4/5

Interior of Admiral Codrington

I wasn’t really sure what to expect from the dining area when I first walked into The Admiral Codrington Pub. On a Friday evening it was pretty full and really loud (as one would expect from an after work crowd). But as soon as I mentioned I had a reservation I was lead back to a modern, refurbished area in the back that was just enough off the main pub area that the loud crowd was a mere hum of noise.

In the dining area it is bright and white and has a large glass roof. Certainly a nice atmosphere for dinner with a friend. As it gets darker and the tables are candle lit it would even make a nice romantic spot.

Salt and pepper squid

Seared hand dived scallops

Would I Want Seconds?

For my starter I ordered the Salt and Pepper Squid (£8.50). I’ve had squid a few times now and have discovered that I actually like it, so it seemed like a good choice. It had just enough kick to keep it interesting and it is lovely and crispy. It’s probably more than I’d need really for a starter and would be better to share.

My friend ordered the Seared Hand Dived Scallops (£9.50) and could not stop raving about them. From the first bite she said they were amazing and cleaned the plate completely! It looked like a more reasonable amount of food to have for a starter than my overstuffed bowl!

For our mains I ordered the Grilled Jumbo Gambas (£15.50). I have to admit I was a bit taken aback when the dish was placed on the table and the prawns still had eyes. It was a new experience for me and I even had to have my friend demonstrate how to peel them as it’s not something I’ve ever come across. They were tasty, but so messy!

My friend ordered the Rump Steak (£27) which came with a side - so she ordered Chips and I ordered a side of Mac and Cheese (£4) and we shared the sides. She loved her steak and said it was tender and juicy which is exactly what you want out of a steak.

The Chips were tasty, some of the better ones I’ve had, but not particularly special. The Mac and Cheese on the other hand was a big hit. It was creamy and cheesy without being too oily from the cheddar. I’m not sure what cheese blend they use, but it was spot on. My friend and I both said we’d come back just for the Mac and Cheese!

Grilled jumbo gambas

Steak

We finished the evening with dessert (not that we really had room after our feast). I ordered the Strawberry Cheesecake (£7) and my friend got the Sticky Toffee Pudding (£6.75). The cheese cake was rich and creamy and was made with the use of real vanilla beans.

The strawberry sauce was a slightest bit tart I thought, but it balanced the sweet cheese cake very well. The only complaint I had was the biscuits at the bottom got a bit too soggy. My friend was a big fan of her pudding as well and her ice cream was proper vanilla too!

Could I Afford Seconds?

The prices are on the steep side for a pub, but as it is a nicer restaurant despite being attached to a pub so it doesn’t seem terribly outrageous. Also, considering most of the menu is seafood and bearing in mind the location, I’d say the prices are fair.

Most of the mains don’t include a side, so I would recommend ordering some to compliment the meal. I think I would have been left wanting more if I had only had the prawns as a main (though the huge starter and dessert did help). Although dining at Admiral Codrington won't be an inexpensive night, but you will have some delicious food.

Mac and cheese

Chips

Overall?

I really enjoyed Admiral Codrington. It is a bit more expensive then I’d really want to spend on an average night out, but for the occasional treat, it’s definitely worth it.

I’d say overall it is value for money as the quality of the food and service are fantastic. It’s in a good location, near the museums - so if you are around the area for lunch I’d recommend you check out their lunch menu!