No 197 Chiswick Fire Station opened its doors for the first time last night. Whilst she might be experiencing a slightly sore head today, Fiona Adams was a huge fan of the cocktails and canapés that Chiswick's hottest new bar had on offer.
We all have to do things we don’t want to do and right now I could do with a lie-down in a dark room. Instead, however, I have to gather my wits, forge through the fogginess in my head and enlighten you, dear reader, about a new bar and eating experience in Chiswick. The fogginess, as you might have gathered, is largely down to the diverse and potent cocktails I consumed at said bar – 197 Chiswick Fire Station – in the interests of this piece.
No 197 is smack bang in the middle of Chiswick High Road, just a short stumble along from the Police Station (I just happened to notice) and a slightly longer stumble back to Turnham Green tube. It is the youngest sibling in the No family, following in the very successful footsteps of No 11 Pimlico Road, No 32 The Old Town and No1 Duke Street, in Richmond, which opened last year. It’s a huge white-washed space with generous, oval central bar and open kitchen, as well as a smallish walled garden. It feels sophisticated, yet pared down with plush bar stools, but wooden tables.
If last night’s cocktails (eye-watering gin gimlets, with fresh rhubarb and passion fruit creations) and copious canapés (mini cornets of chips, wafer thin salami, avocado and crab…) are anything to go by then a visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner is sure to be a tasty affair. All dishes are cooked fresh to order and the drinks menu is extensive (I am speaking with experience here).
Locals and regulars can sign up to The Address (which works for all four locations) and enjoy discounts and treats, which build as you visit. What’s not to love? Well, perhaps the morning after the night before, but that soon wears off. Now where’s that dark room?
If you're interested in finding out more about NO 197 Chiswick Fire Station, you can check out its website here
For more great food and drink news click here, like Sophie Farrah's latest piece on cake fit for a queen
Finally why not follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more great articles about food glorious food
