The concept is fantastic. Located in the heart of London for that “Local” touch, this casual eatery will be “more accessible, speedier and cost friendly” according to the promo. Was it any good? Time to find out...
Ideal for:
When you just cannot get a booking at Heron Tower
Dining on a budget
Weekend brunch
Ambience & Décor
Situated on the vibrant Haymarket, the black and glass exterior with its large “Duck & Waffle Local” signage was hard to miss. The tiled flooring, shiny gadgetry and mood lighting were a good complement to the wooden fixtures and fittings – in particular, the large wooden latticework hanging over the bar area - and quirky light fittings. The glass façade bathes the venue in light. Casual vibes for the Sunday brunch.
Service
Duck & Waffle mentioned that the Local is “fast casual” and “speedier” dining, and that was certainly true. Despite being a busy Sunday brunch, the chefs and waiting staff worked in tandem to turn us around in 35-40 minutes. Perfect if you are catching a show in the area.
Food
The ‘duck centric’ menu was limited but Local compensated by offering never-before-seen items such as the duck jam doughnut and the duck burger (both look amazing!).
Just to sample, we ordered the crispy polenta (left) balls filled with parmesan and truffle. I am a massive fan of both, and hence the dish was a total winner. Great texture and flavour combination. Not oily, the coating was light and crisp, and the dipping sauce was a fantastic accompaniment. For £4, I wanted more, but that is synonymous with London dining.
The Full Elvis (right) at the Local was more of a dessert than a mains dish but went for it nonetheless. I got my savoury tones with a side of bacon. The dish had Banana, peanut butter, strawberry jam, Chantilly cream, Vanilla ice cream, peanut brittle and berries. It came together as it did at Duck & Waffle. The of twist ice cream in lieu of whipped cream was inspired. The lovely crunch and harsh textures of the peanut butter, combatted by the softness of the waffle, banana, Chantilly cream and jam. The richness of the dish was tempered by the bacon, berries and the savoury waffle. For some, this dish might be too rich, but I thought the balance of flavour and textures was perfect.
My dining companion elected to go for the duck & waffle (left). This was confit leg, fried duck egg, mustard maple syrup. Confit leg skin was perfectly crisp revealing a moist duck underneath. The egg was perfect form and consistency. The twist of the mustard maple syrup, just elevated the dish. I am delighted they nailed this, because aficionados can happily try it at the Local.
The key question was if this lighter, faster, cheaper, baby version could match the might of its bigger brother. The best thing about Duck & Waffle Local is that aside from the amazing food, décor and service, you feel you are not compromising by paying less. It is its own dining experience and one that could not only rival its big brother in the City, but most brunch places. Duck & Waffle Local is a genius idea, and long may it stay. Easy A+ Rating.
Photos of Duck & Waffle Local and more can be found on Instagram here.
Final grade: A+
Final comment: Great meal from start to finish. Duck & Waffle Local is a big hit!
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