The Modern Pantry

Finding time to go out for meals with friends and a toddler in tow is a challenge; a lot harder than I had appreciated. When Noah was first born he would happily sleep or coo through an entire meal. However, as soon as he reached seven months he was on the go all the time needing constant entertaining and as such eating and enjoying it became a very different story; even stressful at times if he hadn't slept. 

So when friends suggested a catch up over breakfast without Noah, I had one thought in mind; wherever we went it had to be good. I've spent a large amount of time recently thinking about food and a relaxing meal out. I've even been salivating at cookery programmes on television.

The Modern Pantry just off Finsbury Square has been on the foodie list for a while, as it combines two loves of mine, food and beautiful architecture. 

The Modern Pantry is set in the beautiful Art Deco grade II listed Alphabeta Building. The historic exterior hides a modern architectural delight which has just recently undergone a huge reinvestment. Its updated atrium and the first ever ride in cycle ramp are two such changes. I Imagine that you could in theory cycle almost to your desk, should you wish too that is. It even houses a basket ball court and terrace offering amazing views of London's sky line. 

The design of the The Modern Pantry is in contrast to the office space next door, with the restaurant opting for crisp white lines, high ceilings that any interior designer would be envious of, beautiful Walnut tables and orbed lights. 

Their breakfast and brunch menu (7.30-11.30 am) offers lots of choice from fresh fruits, muesli, pancakes, omelettes and cooked breakfasts.

My friend like me has been dreaming about her breakfast long before we step inside, in fact she had studied the menu before coming. She chooses scrambled eggs, toast with; crispy halloumi, buttered spinach, lemongrass roast vine ripened tomatoes (£10.50). 

I'm reliably informed that it was delicious. Especially the scrambled eggs which were perfectly cooked moist and creamy. 

I opt for grilled smoked streaky bacon, coconut & soy braised Portobello mushrooms, lemongrass roast vine ripened tomatoes (£10.50). 

It does come with two eggs and I ask if I can substitute them out, to which I'm quickly advised they don't do substitutions. So I choose halloumi cheese (£2.50) instead to go with my breakfast. 

The final choice on the table is two soft boiled eggs, buttered Vegemite soldiers (£6.00). With an addition of hot smoked scotch salmon (£4.50). 

I had really high expectation for The Modern Pantry but the service for my taste was a little too relaxed. With only six tables occupied, the restaurant was nearly half empty, the service was underwhelming and nearly non existent. The food whilst lovely and fresh was small and considerably overpriced for what you get. I did however love the ambience, the environment is spacious with wonderful lighting and a lovely place for a catch up.

So if you want a very relaxed breakfast in the heart of the City in a beautiful environment, can over look the price, then The Modern Pantry is a good offering. 

www.themodernpantry.co.uk

Do you have any good breakfast or brunch suggestions for me?