Eating Out: The Green Room

Jun 6 2012 By Joe McGuire

CALL me old fashioned but I’m a big fan of the classic combo, dinner and a show.

Now I’ve always been aware that the Royal Concert Hall is an excellent venue for the latter, catering for all music tastes.

What I didn’t know was they can also sort you out on the dinner front as well.

On show nights the venue opens up The Green Room, a fabulous little restaurant based above the hall.

I have to confess I wasn’t aware that it was there, and had to ask directions from concert hall staff when I arrived.

Walking into the restaurant I immediately got the sense that it was worth the hunt.

Have you ever wondered what those big windows at the top of Buchanan Street, above Donald Dewar’s statue, are for?

I know I often had, so I was very glad to be sat at a beautifully dressed table in front of said window, my companion placed next to me rather than across so we could both indulge in some people watching.

The decor put me in mind of some 1920s cruise liner, delightfully art deco, with classics like Claire de Lune adding a soft aural dressing.

With the whole of Buchanan Street laid out in front of us, we pored over the excellent menu, and decided to do three courses for £21.50, which gets you your tea and coffee too.

I plumped for the crab linguine to kick things off. Served in a chilli, lemon and parsley sauce it was deliciously spicy, and didn’t stint on the crab meat.

My friend had the smoked duck with bean sprouts, coriander noodles and sesame seeds served with an orange and cardamom dressing (£1 supplement).

All I can tell you is that it was beautifully presented, as she enjoyed it so much she declined to let me taste any. Her personal verdict? “Fabulous”.

For my mains I went for the chicken supreme served with pancetta, broad beans and herb mascarpone. A good solid portion, the chicken was cooked to perfection and the posh bacon was exceptionally flavourful.

My companion plumped for saffron risotto with baby spinach, roasted red pepper and goats cheese, a dish she praised for its spicing.

After the big plate of rice she wasn’t up for dessert, so I faced the sweet menu alone.

I opted for the dark chocolate truffle cake with grand marnier sorbet, a dish that seduced both the chocoholic and tipple-lover in me. It was magnificent, and before long my friend asked for a spoon to try some.

Rounding things off with a coffee I reflected on what an absolute hidden gem The Green Room is.

The classy decor, excellent service and delicious food all add up to an attractive pre-show package, at a fantastic price. Not to mention the great location-instead of having to rush across town from another restaurant my friend and I were able to take the steps downstairs with five minutes to spare before the West End’s Ramin Karimloo was due on stage.

So next time I’m seeing a show at the Royal Concert Hall I’ll be sure to make my reservation.

Window seat preferably.

 

Click here for your chance to win a meal for four at The Green Room.