The Fire Station

Leandra Box   18-11-2008

The Fire Station in Hammersmith has recently reopened following a makeover, giving it an airy up to date look. It is a somewhat unique place to go in that it has retained it's authenticity – keeping the traditional fire station features of fireman’s pole and massive fire doors, giving a sense of grandeur and a distinct quirkiness. The size of the venue means that it can comfortably accommodate a large bar, stylish dining room, and quiet lounge room.

I went on a Friday night and the place was packed to the rafters at 7pm! Clearly popular with the after work crowd, and I have to say it did feel like the ideal place for that post work drink and bite to eat, great for large groups in particular. However I was there for a different reason; a quiet bite to eat with my date. I didn’t think that that was going to be possible give the good time vibe of the bar, however I was wrong. The dining room was sufficiently separated from the main bar to give it a smaller more intimate feel.

The Fire Station prides itself on its seasonal produce from organic, free range and artisan producers, meaning that you actually know where the food on your plate is coming from. Our starters were substantial – in fact perhaps a little too large for me as I was planning on a three course extravaganza! We had the Potted Southwold Shrimps and the Manor House Chicken, Cured Ham and Wild Cabbage Terrine. The shrimp was a particular success; the kind of thing you wish you kept in your fridge, and ideal as a rich teatime or supper snack. The terrine was good, if there was any criticism it would be that it maybe needed a little more seasoning. Our mains were hearty comfort food: Sausage and Mash and the Lamb Chops. The mash was whipped lightly and the sausages herby. The potatoes that were served with the Lamb were to die for, and the lamb itself was cooked to perfection. After finishing the first two courses I waited almost 30 minutes, hoping that space would be created in my full stomach to indulge myself with the Valhrona Chocolate Pot with Sugar Biscuits or the Sticky Toffee Pudding with Butterscotch and Clotted Cream – sadly it wasn’t to be. I did glance at our neighbouring tables, however, and I can confirm that the dessert did look great!

Before heading off home, I took a peek around the rest of the Fire Station and was pleasantly surprised (by all but the lack of toilet tissue in the loos!). The bar has a simple menu featuring light bites as well as more substantial offerings, I also discovered that they serve an interesting looking Sunday lunch as well as having a kids menu. The drinks were good too, we checked out both the wine and cocktails and were not disappointed.

So the Fire Station has done a good job in this bit of London, its new look makes it feel modern, airy and farily informal, creating the perfect place to head to after work for drinks, food and socialising. It is also a pretty good option if you fancy decent, honest, and hearty food with an ethical twist

Leandra Box
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