Harden's says
A third branch for Gordon Ker's popular chop-house mini-chain, this time in Old Street, in the former Rivington Grill space (RIP); it is the biggest Blacklock restaurant yet, with space for a bar (with dedicated bar snacks menu).
Harden's survey result
Summary
“When craving good quality red meat”, “these buzzy (if “very noisy”) chop-shops are bang on the money”, offering some of “the best VFM meat in London”, plus “attentive and welcoming service” too. “The steaks compare very favourably to Hawksmoor, especially as they are a fraction of the price” – “corkage is £10, which when matched with Butcher’s Block prices on a Monday makes for unbeatable value”. “Interiors are sleek but also relaxed (big groups – potentially with burger juices dripped down the front – can laugh loudly across circular tables without getting any side-eye”). Top Menu Tip – “The ‘All In’ is a heady mix of different meats laid on bread which soaks up all the resting juices… wonderful!”
Summary
“Still a legendary destination with consistently excellent meats, sides, drinks all far cheaper than at Hawksmoor” – these “dark and noisy” operations are “a go-to destination when you want some serious meat (perhaps more chophouse than steak house), with many good options that don’t dent the wallet”; and widely seen as “a better bet than other big high-end steak chains”. “They pack the punters in, so a good tip is to request a booth”. “Steaks are cooked just right. Staff are happy and helpful. Why didn’t I go here years ago?”. Top Menu Tips – “Sunday lunch is legendary”. And “try the ‘All-In’ for a variety of chops on excellent grilled flatbreads, and a couple of tasty sides between two. Also a (poorly promoted) option to BYO for £10 corkage at any time”.
Summary
“Absolutely delicious grilled meats with equally tasty accompaniments, all in a buzzy and fun setting” inspire many loyalists for Gordon Ker’s “go-to” chain, which in May 2023 added a fifth branch in Canary Wharf’s North Dock. “Hawksmoor every week could be financially ruinous, but this never disappoints, be it lunch or dinner, for half the money”. Top Tips – “Butchers Block Monday prices, and regular £10 corkage. Get in!” Also the “all-in” meat-fest of lamb and pork chops, steak and bacon: “it uses cheaper cuts and preparation is basic, but juices drip over the plate, and the peppercorn sauce is delicious!”
Summary
“You can’t really go wrong with the plates of meaty delicious chops” (“nothing delicate or subtle just full flavours doing the meat full justice”) at these “no-frills but hearty” pit stops, which provide a “vibrant” and “excellent-value” option for an inexpensive meal out. “It’s great to be able to choose how many chops you want to eat and the sides and sauces are the absolute best”. “They deliver an impressively consistent performance”, and “given that there is nowhere to hide when the food is this simple, it’s hats off to the chefs here!” “Don’t go for a quiet night”, though, as they “can be rather rowdy”. Top Tip – “the Monday night Butcher’s Block offer is super value, especially when teamed up with £10 corkage to BYO”.
For 34 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at Blacklock?
Restaurant details
Best Steaks & grills restaurants nearby
Steaks & grills restaurant in Shoreditch
Steaks & grills restaurant in City
Steaks & grills restaurant in Shoreditch
Best similarly priced restaurants nearby
Indian restaurant in Hackney
Pizza restaurant in London
Mexican restaurant in Shoreditch
