Review: One Sixty, City of London
Style Points: 3/5
Price: ££
Overall: 4/5
One Sixty is simplistic in its decor with light wood tables and chairs but it still isn’t out of place in the classy City location. The black walls and the blackboards give it a fun and welcoming feel as diners settle back for a meal here.
Would I Want Seconds?
When I finally arrived at One Sixty, City (there are two branches so make sure your heading to the right one!) we started off by ordering from their very inviting cocktail menu which had a 2 for 1 offer. We decided on two French martinis, which were sweet, strong and smooth to the extent that they were almost creamy. We also had two amaretto sours which had a distinct sweetness with a citrus after-taste. One thing I'm always impressed with is knowledgeable waiting staff, I like to be able to ask them anything about the menu and they're able to advise. We struck lucky with our waitress who knew the menu inside out and recommended dishes and drinks to us.
The menu had a section titled 'bites' I was unsure if these were starters or actual mini bites (not the Iceland type but canapé sized bundles of fun). We ordered the macaroni cheese bites to share but it was served as more of a starter dish or it could have easily been a side. The macaroni was really creamy in a white sauce and sprinkled with chives. It was indulgent with all it's cream and cheese which meant only a couple of bites for me as I really shouldn't! It didn't however have enough of the crusty topping which is my favourite part of mac n cheese and had a bit more moisture than I prefer. This is of course, down to personal taste and that might be just how you like yours!
For our mains, my guest ordered the dry aged burger, One Sixty chuck steak patty. She said it was delicious and I did try some and quickly had major food envy.
My main was a brioche bun on either side of tender pulled pork 14 hours, packed with flavour and piled high. I wasn't sure how to tackle it but I decided to cut it in half and go for gold! It was everything you want from a burger, good quality meat, a soft bun and some extra bits (red cabbage, tomato and lettuce) to fill it out and complement the meat.
We also ordered chips which were a little hard and crunchy for us!
Drinks to start
Side salad
Macaroni cheese bite
The waitress was keen for us to try the oxcheek as it is a staff favourite. We were slightly hesitant as we were anxious about it being a cut of the meat we don't usually opt for, however we were still willing to try it. This was served with delicious creamy mashed potato which was sprinkled with chives and red cabbage and it was beautifully presented. The oxcheek had a very distinct texture but a pleasant taste, much softer than your usual cut of beef. I was encouraged to take this home as the waitresses advised it would taste even better the next day - I did have a taste the next day and she was right.
Our cocktails were strong and delicious, just how I like them! The atmosphere was pretty lively when we arrived and the staff were very hospitable which made us feel at home.
I think I would order my guest's burger the next time around. I think I initially ordered the beef brisket bun and I learned that this is only served during the day which is when it is at it's best so I would be interested in ordering that on a lunchtime visit.
Dry aged beef burger
Pulled pork burger
Ox Cheek
Could I Afford Seconds?
Prices vary across the menu with starters around £7.50, mains range from between £8.00 - £21.50 depending on your choice of meat and cut.
Most meals come with chips but we had a healthy side of tender-stem broccoli with garlic and chilli which was £4.00.
Overall: 4/5
One Sixty is a great city location for unpretentious but impressive offering of burgers, beers and more.
Reviewed by guest writer @SyeshiaSweeney
Website: www.one-sixty.co.uk
Address: 9 Stoney Lane E1 7BH
Closest Tube Station: Aldgate