B. Penhale has opened at 57 West Smithfield, in the Grade II-listed former Club Gascon site, bringing British and Irish cooking from the team behind Camille. Chef-patron Elliot Hashtroudi has named the restaurant after his grandmother Betty.
The cooking
The menu is built on British and Irish traditions with a whole-carcass approach, making use of offal and lesser-used cuts. White tablecloths and Victorian dining rituals set the tone, with a wine list putting British winemakers front and centre. A six-seat walk-in bar runs a changing chalkboard menu for spontaneous visits.
What to expect
The Camille team has a strong track record, and the Club Gascon building is one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the City fringe. The offal-and-ritual approach will not be for everyone, but for diners who like their restaurants with conviction, B. Penhale is one of October’s most interesting arrivals.
Walk-ins should head for the bar. Everyone else should book.
