"Plate Restaurant in Old Street at M by the Montcalm Hotel offers top notch dining in a relaxed and modern setting. Although there is a ground floor bar and cafe in the hotel, my tip would be to head straight on up to the restaurant on the second floor. Here you can sit in the sleek glass fronted building, watching the hustle and bustle go by. Owner and Chef Director Arnaud Stevens has previously worked with the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Jason Atherton and Richard Corrigan. With that experience, Plate restaurant in Old Street is bound to be something special. A particular highlight of my visit were the signature Plate cocktails – designed by the bar’s own mixologists. These amazing cocktails are worth visiting for alone! My absolute favourite was the Naked Negroni – light, summery and refreshing, this cocktail was very drinkable! The staff were knowledgeable and attentive – they definitely knew the menu inside out, as they came up with spot on recommendations for me. I had the Plate signature bread flight to start, which is an absolute must if you visit this restaurant. The trio of warm, freshly baked breads were outstanding with the accompanying trio of whipped butters. The mushroom brioche was so light and flavoursome (not an overpowering taste of mushroom) and the onion whipped butter with crispy shallots on top was stunning. For mains, we had the Parmesan gnocchi with sprouting broccoli, almond puree and elderflower dressing and the Rump of lamb, with tomato fondue, anchovy, basil dressing and charred gem lettuce. If you are hungry, I would suggest getting a side to accompany your main. The buttered green beans were a great accompaniment to the lamb. Although the portions are not huge at Plate restaurant, the well balanced dishes were spot on to allow you to enjoy three courses and not feel utterly stuffed. This is particularly helpful, as saying no to desert here is not an option. This desert menu will appeal to anyone with a sweet tooth. I tried the Valrhona caramel chocolate mousse, with pain perdu, hazelnuts and passion fruit. This beautifully presented pudding didn’t leave you stuffed, as the passion fruit cut through the mousse and brioche perfectly. I was reliably informed that the British menu with a French twist is frequently changing to match the latest seasonal produce available. The relaxed, but smart setting, stands this restaurant apart from your average hotel restaurant. Whether you pop in for just a cocktail, or a three course meal, Plate Restaurant at M by the Montcalm is definitely worth a visit."
