#Tbt to Valentines day, Smiths of Wapping

Refined seafood dining with sweeping river views from an elegant and stylish contemporary interior.

It's become tradition to dine at Smiths for Valentines day, and yes, I do know how lucky I am! So this post is a tribute to all those who enjoy Valentines day, after all, what's not to love about spending time with your loved ones?

Four years ago myself and my partner dined at Smiths with friends and family. I had the Crispy Cornish Calamari with Garlic Mayonnaise, the Cornish Monkfish, and the Banoffee Cheesecake with Banana and Butterscotch Ice Cream. As you can probably imagine, it was as incredible as it sounds, and so I made a vow to myself that I would return...

Dish no.1 - Caramelised Duck 45 day matured, on a winter pomegranate salad

The verdict: This duck was on par with the dish I tasted at Chai Wui, equally succulent and has lashings of flavour. But it was completely different with regards to ingredients, it was sweeter and extremely moorish, I found that the pickled onions really added another layer to the dish. 4/5

It’s good to note...

Smiths of Wapping has excellent riverside views of the Thames which really adds to the atmosphere. I've never been in a restaurant quite like it.

Dish no.2 - Tuna tartare in a chilli, soy, ginger and sesame dressing

The verdict: Delightfully flavoursome and the perfect introduction to a meal. The ginger and sesame dressing really highlighted the delicacy of the tuna, whilst the chilli added a pleasant hint of spice and an extra kick. 5/5

Unfortunately I misplaced the images of our main meals, which is a shame because I really wanted to share them! I had the baked fillet of Norweigen Halibut, parmesan, spring onion and Chablis cream sauce. It was exquisite! There were subtle flavours and soft flakes amongst an incredible sauce. The exact amount of richness to be desired. 5/5

Keep in mind...

Smiths is synonymous for fine dining and famous for fish. If you're a fan of seafood this is the place to go.

My partner chose the Teriyaki salmon fillet, stir fried vegetables & sesame dressing. He chose sesame twice in the same meal (yes I noticed), however it tasted completely different. It was less spice and more aromatic flavours. Personally salmon has always been my least favourite fish, but I would have polished this off myself given the opportunity. 4/5

We stopped off at an independent wine bar alongside St Kathrine Docks Marina to finish off the night, and settled on a Canard-Duchêne Rose NV Champagne. Crisp and refreshingly light.

Then we were off home, feeling joyful and definitely satisfied. Another memorable experience to add to our books. I wonder where we'll end up next?

Don't forget to follow my instagram @honestlyletsdine!