Randomness Guide to London - Differences between Version 7 and Version 6 of 28-50 Wine Workshop And Kitchen, W1U 2NE

A classy wine bar and restaurant in Marylebone, serving mainly French food. The original branch is in Fetter Lane; this one opened in June 2012. Both specialise in enormous wine selections and are sister restaurants to Texture.

It's located in a glass-fronted new-build on the corner of Marylebone Lane and Jason Court. Inside, there's a large triangular bar in the centre of the room with overhead wine glass racks that is pleasingly reminiscent of an old pub, despite the otherwise modern decor.

Kat visited with her parents on a Friday lunchtime in July 2012. We had booked online; there were empty seats at 1pm but within half an hour they were very quickly filled, mainly by business types and the usual well-off Marylebone residents.

The wine list has a huge range of both price and variety, and most are available by the glass or carafe, with glass sizes going down as small as 75ml. There is also a separate 'collectors' wine menu which offers more expensive wines by the bottle (we're talking £50+ here). Kat's 75ml glass of (excellent) Riesling was from the middle of the main list and cost £3.70.

The smoked salmon starter (£8) went down well, although the tomato & goat cheese tart (£6.50) was a little dry and unexciting. This was made up for by the main courses of pork belly (£15) and confit duck leg (also £15). Both were outstanding in terms of flavour and texture, in particular Kat's duck was mouthwatering and not too salty. The portion size could have been slightly bigger but to be fair I could have eaten an entire duck's worth of it. Creme brulee for dessert had an unusual layer of peach compote at the bottom — this didn't quite work texture-wise but the flavour contrast was a nice change.

Service throughout was fine despite getting very busy at times. Water and a basket of fresh bread was provided without prompting and the staff were happy to give recommendations about matching wines. A 12.5% service charge was automatically added to the bill.

Accessibility: no steps to get in, not sure about toilets.

Kat's verdict: I would happily return and eat more duck here.

See also:

• The Independent review (by Amol Rajan)
• Chowhound thread
• Fiona Beckett's review
• The Food Judge review
• LONDONcalling review
• London Eater review
• Travelletto review

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