Review: Back In 5 Minutes, Shoreditch

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

My experience dining at Back in 5 Minutes was a different experience to what I’m used to. I knew when I got the invite that it was ‘in the back of a clothing shop’ but I don’t think I really got it. When they say in the back of a clothing shop they mean you will show up and awkwardly stand outside wondering if you’re actually in the right place. Then you’ll notice a tiny, unlit menu on the wall and this yep, this must be the right place!

The shop is bright and white and features current and trendy clothes in their monochrome simplicity. We walked up to the till in the back of the room and the woman in the shop directed us down a couple of stairs through a heavy black curtain. Once you step through the curtain it is completely different. It’s a dark, cosy feel with what I would call mid-century Scandinavian decor, with a bit of a hipster filter.

There are only three tables and they all seat 8-10 people. It wasn’t very busy the night we went so no one ended up at the table with us, but I imagine on a busier night they would. It was quite a cosy place. The lighting was dim but warm as it gave off a auburn glow, making it a great atmosphere for dining…but terrible for photos!

Would I Want Seconds?

Not long after we sat down we were greeted with a welcome drink and welcome snack as well as some soft bread. We decided to have the three course menu (£35) and paired it with just the house white wine (£20). For our starter’s we choose the Gravadlax which was served on a cute little fish plate served with beetroot and cucumber. I went for the Butternut Squash Soupwhich had lovely croutons that were loads better than what you get in the packet of your Caesar Salad kit. It was also nice to have soup as it sort of fit the mood of the location and decor in that it’s cosy.

Sadly I wasn’t very impressed with the selection of mains: Bream, Lamb or Ratatouille (vegetarian). I decided to order the Ratatouille which was served with polenta chips. The ratatouille itself was tasty but felt really heavy for a meat free dish.

We wrapped the meal up with our dessert course. Unsurprisingly, as soon as I saw Chocolate Brownie on the menu I knew exactly what I would be getting. It’s my go to dessert and if a place can’t do a good chocolate brownie then they can’t do a good dessert in my opinion. Thankfully, this was a good brownie! It was really fudgey and dense, dark and rich…perfectly paired with a salted caramel sauce and a bit of cream. Definitely the highlight of my meal. And obvious proof of my sweet tooth!

We also tried the Three Great British Cheeses on the menu. There was a brie, blue stilton and really strong cheddar. I enjoy cheese and I enjoyed these cheeses - but they didn’t beat my brownie!

Could I Afford Seconds?

The three course set menu is £35. There is also the option to order two courses for £30 or six for £45. I think the three course was the perfect amount of food, but I think it might be a tad bit pricey as a three course meal for two with a bottle of the cheapest wine would easily be just over £100 by the time you add in service. Additionally the dishes weren't served in particularly large portions, so I’d have to say it’s not really value for money.

Although, I did overhear another couple who did the two course meal and one got a starter and one got a dessert so they could share - that’s one way to get the most out of the experience!

Overall?

Now just because I think it might be a bit pricey doesn't mean I wouldn't go back or recommend it. It was a fun experience, and it’s the kind of place where the menu changes regularly so had I visited at a different time it might have blown me away with different choices.

Back in 5 Minutes makes you  feel like you’re part of a secret club when you go into the back room at a store for dinner. So lots of points for interesting experience and ambiance as and a result, you certainly won't regret eating here.

Reviewed by A Yank In Blighty

Website: www.disappearingdiningclub.co.uk
Address: 224 Brick Lane, E1 6SA
Closest Tube Station: Shoreditch High Street