I started the evening with a specially mixed mocktail, a winter berry bellini, which was sweet, tart, and refreshing. It’s really nice to be given good non-alcoholic options for drinks  and this one was delicious.

We had a selection of nibbles from the regular menu, from flavourful chicken tikka bites over honey glazed chorizo to breaded halloumi fries, there was so much to get stuck into. Succulent and freshly prepared, it was a fantastic selection to begin the meal with.

For my starter I chose the artichoke and aubergine salad. Beautifully presented and well balanced, I like the pickled elements paired with sweet dressing, really great flavours! Presented really well and with perfectly blended flavours, the only thing that seemed a little out of place was one plain bread stick placed along the top of the salad. I’d have loved to see some balsamic croutons or something else more specific to the dish.

There was also a roast pumpkin and ginger soup, very flavourful and smooth, as well as a smoked salmon dish with subtle and sweet horseradish jelly cubes.

For the main I tried the vegan option, cauliflower steak on a bed of lentil and spinach fricassee. The cauliflower was well cooked, but a little bland on its own, I wish it would have been marinated a little to inject some flavour into it. But paired with the very flavourful lentil and spinach side, it tasted great. A very smooth and earthy combination and very enjoyable. Maybe a little on the greasy side, but full of flavour and a great vegetarian option.

The other options were the traditional turkey dish, and a sea bass dish, neither of which I tried as I’m not too keen on sea food or turkey. The dished did look great though!

For pudding I picked the coconut and raspberry mousse, and it was absolutely devine! Served with a sprinkling of golden popping candy, it was a next level dessert with beautiful flavours, impeccable presentation, and a great overall appeal.

I didn’t think it was very christmassy though, as I don’t associate these flavours with the winter season at all. Maybe a more orangey or cinnamon-based flavour would have been more tied into the theme. However, it was a delicious dessert and I’d eat it again any day! Easily my favourite part of the meal.

I also got to try a few bites of the christmas pudding, which was surprisingly airy. Often, these kind of traditional christmas puddings can be quite dense and stodgy, but this one felt very contemporary and light, with all the traditional flavours packaged in a fluffy little package with candied ginger and berries on top. Gorgeous pudding with amazing rich flavours.

We were treated to a really well balanced meal with tranditional and surprising options, fantastic service with very friendly and enthusiastic staff, as well as a comfortable and inviting environment. I loved the experience and would definitely recommend The Kitchen for Christmas parties as well as anytime dinner visits. If you’re in the London Bridge area, it’s a fantastic option for a delicious, good value meal.

I’ll definitely be back to enjoy the great flavours and amazing service at The Kitchen at the Hilton Tower Bridge.