After much anticipation and hype surrounding Jason’s new solo venture I was very excited to get the chance to sample his food once again. Since dining at Maze in London back in 2008, I have been a massive fan of Jason’s cooking because of its originality. Unlike other Gordon Ramsay establishments, Jason’s personality was stamped all over it.
I would describe Jason’s food as very appealing and I’ve always found it very easy to relate to. When you can understand a chef’s way of thinking just by reading the menu, it gives you great confidence for what’s in store. His accuracy when preparing and cooking food is something I’ve always respected along with his ability to know when to stop adding flavours or ingredients; this being a dying trait.
Stepping into Pollen Street Social for lunch was a very exciting experience. Having visited in February while the restaurant was still a work site, I knew Jason’s vision had been realised. Upon entering the restaurant the staff were warm and welcoming, immediately creating a relaxed atmosphere and reflecting Jason’s style and food perfectly. I happily began my late lunch with a pint of Adnams, served in a tankard, whilst sitting at the bar observing a fantastic new restaurant with a really great buzz. On sitting at our table laid with white linen, although a casual atmosphere, I was reminded that this was a top restaurant in a top setting with its focus on providing a memorable experience.
My first course was the cauliflower and squid with clear roasted squid juice, cleverly constructed to look like risotto with the squid cut into small rice size pieces; full of flavour, well balanced, and a special way to begin the meal. For my main I had hake with sea vegetables; another well cooked dish displaying Jason’s talent to combine flavours without over-complicating the end result. For dessert, I had something that I was intrigued to try. Peaches, carrot granita, and tarragon ice-cream; a very inventive combination of flavours which worked really well and did not fail to deliver the wow factor you attach to Jason’s food.
Pollen Street Social; a new restaurant in temperamental times is, I’m pleased to say, a very busy restaurant with a fantastic chef at the helm. Jason’s respect for his ingredients and unique style of food have already earned him brilliant reviews and support. I can only endorse the positive views and envisage this as the start of great things to come.
