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The Clove Club

London, UK

Quintessential British with a twist

On the Pass

Isaac McHale

Why visit: The Clove Club’s interpretation of ‘modern British’ is refreshing and full of surprises, with fresh produce from all over the UK reinvented in creations that put forward natural flavours and playfully mingle with tradition.

A brief history: Scottish chef Isaac McHale founded the restaurant with Daniel Willis and Johnny Smith. The trio used to run an experimental supper club in Shoreditch, East London, before opening The Clove Club in 2013. McHale trained at The Ledbury, Noma and Eleven Madison Park prior to embarking on his own venture, and is now solely in charge of the restaurant.

On the menu: There is a full tasting menu and a shorter version with five courses (also available at lunchtime), as well as a wine pairing option. The menu is everchanging and diners can expect the likes of gently cooked Orkney scallops with potato butter sauce, or mackerel sashimi with heritage cucumbers. As for dessert, you may taste caramel chocolate with speculoos and peated barley, or a caramel ice cream with coffee meringue.

The space: Set within the historic Shoreditch Town Hall, the blue-tiled dining room has a relaxed East London vibe with an open kitchen and laid-back service.

If you’re still hungry: In late 2016, McHale and his team opened Luca restaurant in Clerkenwell, a more casual venue where he channels his inner Italian while still focusing on British seasonal ingredients.

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