We tend to think of a "fine restaurant" when we say lobsters but that's not the case in London. Three lobster shops have already opened and others are on the way, taking the city by storm. Smack Deli is not a fine diner, but a very casual fast food shop selling fine, delicate bites.
Located a few meters away from Selfridges Smack Deli is a place you should not miss while visiting the British capital. Burger&Lobster is more popular, but that doesn't mean it's better. I've been to the famous shop already and can assure you that Smack Deli is better, way better.
Smack Deli proposes a selection of different flavored lobsters each for £7 to £9, and not £20 like at the competition. Fully and generously loaded, they are rich and full of taste, where the bread is felt less. Juicy, crispy, buttered, these sandwiches are guaranteed to amaze.
The little details that make the place:
- The draft dispenser offered ginger beer, organic coke and water. No soft drinks and no alcoholic beverages, but a unique selection of healthy stuff.
- Soothing jazz music plays in the background.
- Designer, yet simple and relaxing at the same time, concrete covers the floor and walls where black tones take over the space.
- An open kitchen prepares the orders before they move forward to be devoured.
- The first impression is a happy and joyful staff, which I appreciated.
- The best part is the innovative design: The dining space includes wooden bars hanging from the ceiling with metallic strips surrounded by high stools in a space that's warmly lit, like a street or an avenue.
The choices:
- Mexican
- Happy Ending
- California
- Seven Samurai
Let's eat:
- The rolls are called rolls but there's no roll involved, just to make things clear. Served in a carton, the sandwich is like a large, square piece of bread, folded in half and sealed on the sides.
- We had four rolls, all were perfect. Juicy bun soaked in butter and toasted on the sides, cut down the middle and stuffed, ready to explode. Chunks of lobster mixed with mayonnaise and vegetables, offering a real lobster flavor with a spicy aftertaste.
Lobster rolls have landed in Lebanon. Our local version is lighter with less mayonnaise, a smaller portion, but close to the same taste.
