On a Saturday in February, the Original Soupwoman and the Inhouse Food Critic forayed into the Capital in search of some cultural delights, and found some in form of a matinée performance of Romeo and Juliet (music by Prokofiev, choreography by MacMillan) at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. Our original plan was simply to grab a burger afterwards in nearby branch of GBK, but as we walked past Belgo Centraal, we were suddenly overcome by a craving for a bowl of juicy mussels. Hence, a change of plans and there we went.
It was just after 5, but a queue was already forming. We were put on a waiting list and told that there would be a 5-10 mins wait, which turned out pretty much correct. And it was also lucky, as the bar area was rather grim, especially as there was no service at the bar yet and we just stood around. Having said that, it was also a chance to take in the industrial design of the place, which is unique.
The restaurant is down in the basement, large halls filled with wooden tables and benches, the servers clad in black monk’s robes buzzing around carrying plates and huge pots of mussels. The atmosphere was lively to say the least, and perhaps too noisy for some – there was a certain feel of a factory canteen.
Our drinks orders were taken quickly, and when Inhouse Soup Critic’s chosen beverage was not available, our server recommended an excellent alternative from the extensive list of Belgian beers. Starters also arrived quickly – crab soup for him, Thai style mussels for me. Both were very tasty, and the mussels big and juicy, but it was a little surprising that no bread was served with the soup – it should have been ordered separately. After we finished, our plates were taken away quickly and as our server spotted I tiny drop of broth on the table she cleaned it promptly.
The mains – Mussels Provençal for him, Herb-crusted lamb with creamed savoy cabbage for her – took a bit longer, but we were in no rush so we used that time for discussing the performance we just saw (we both agreed especially Juliet had been fantastic) and of course for people-watching. Belgo is good place for that, as it attracts all kinds of people, from families with children to couples to groups of young people.
As we left, the queue was already stretching to the main door, which demonstrates how popular this place is, and I can see why, although I would not necessarily be willing to wait longer than 20 mins or so to get in.
The Conclusion: We both enjoyed our food, it was good solid quality: tasty, well prepared and nicely presented. The price came to around 50 pounds for 2 courses and 2 Belgian beers – not exactly cheap and cheerful but OK for London, I suppose. The tip (or service charge) was added to the bill automatically, which normally annoys me, but at Belgo Centraal, the super-efficient staff work their butts off and earn every penny.
The Verdict: Belgo Centraal is an interesting experience, but its hectic atmosphere and industrial feel may not suit everyone. Their Express Lunch (12-5pm, a course from their lunch menu + drink for £7.95 ) and Beat the Clock offer (a special menu, priced according to the time the order is placed) seem to offer good value and are worth checking out.