If you’re in the mood for an evening of indulgence, then Bar 1790 should be at the top of your list. This wine bar, located in the heart of the City of London, is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to enjoy some delicious food and drink in an elegant and sophisticated setting.
The menu at Bar 1790 is a mix of traditional Portuguese dishes and modern British cuisine, all with a twist of flavour and style that sets it apart from the rest. For our Petiscar (To Snack), we started with the Pao de massa Mae, manteiga de anchova, lardo (Warm Sourdough bread, whipped anchovy butter, lardo). This dish was a real highlight of the meal, with the whipped anchovy butter adding a salty, savoury flavour that paired perfectly with the warm sourdough bread.
Moving on to our Entradas (Small Plates), we tried the Croquetes de bacalhau, molho romesco (Salt cod croquettes, romesco sauce). The croquettes were nicely cooked, but what really set them apart was the addition of the whipped anchovy butter from our first dish. It might not have been the traditional way to eat them, but the combination of the two was a real treat for our taste buds.
For our main course, we chose the Frango Grelhado, maionese peri peri, limao caremeliado (whole barbecued baby chicken, peri peri mayonnaise, caramelized lemon) and the Alheira, cebola caramelizada e vinho de jerez (Portuguese sausage, caramelised onions & sherry). The baby chicken was tender and full of flavour, while the peri peri mayonnaise added a little kick of heat that made the dish even more enjoyable. The sausage was a revelation, with the caramelised onions and sherry bringing out all of the savoury, meaty flavours.
The wine list at Bar 1790 is extensive and impressive, featuring some of the best Portuguese wines around. We were recommended a smooth and fruity Douro to accompany our meal, and it was a great choice. We then had a tawny Port with our dessert, and it was absolutely delicious, which was hardly surprising given the bar is owned by Sandeman Port, which has been making outstanding Port since the 1790s. The cocktails at Bar 1790 were also really good, and the team paid great attention to detail when presenting them, which was really cool to see. It’s always great to have such a passionate team behind the bar.
To round off our meal, we decided to indulge in some dessert. We tried the Donuts de canela e baunilha (Cinnamon – Vanilla doughnuts) and the Pastel de Nata com sorvee (Warm Portuguese custard tart, cinnamon ice cream). The custard tart was a standout, with the warm pastry and creamy custard combining to create a truly delicious dessert. The cinnamon ice cream was a refreshing accompaniment that added just the right amount of spice to the dish.
One thing that really sets Bar 1790 apart is its history. The bar is owned by the famous Port house Sandeman, which has been making outstanding Port since the 1790s. In fact, the bar is located in the same building where Sandeman used to store and age its wines. This gives the bar a sense of heritage and tradition that you just don’t find at many other places.
The atmosphere at Bar 1790 is also worth mentioning. The bar is located in a series of underground rooms that have been beautifully renovated and decorated to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. There are plenty of nooks and crannies to explore, including the Sandeman Room and the Barrel Cellar, which offer some of the City’s finest private dining spaces. The Family Room, which is filled with Sandeman memorabilia, is a real gem and provides a glimpse into the bar’s rich history.
Overall, Bar 1790 is a fantastic destination for anyone who loves great food and drink in a beautiful and historic setting. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively night out with friends, this bar has something to offer everyone. And with an extensive wine list that features some of the best Portuguese wines around, you’re sure to find the perfect complement to your meal. The bar even offers a range of Port-based cocktails, which are a must-try for any Port lover.
The service at Bar 1790 was impeccable. Our server was knowledgeable and friendly and made us feel right at home. They were happy to make recommendations and answer any questions we had about the menu. The attention to detail was impressive, with each dish presented beautifully and with care.
While the prices at Bar 1790 may be on the higher side, the quality of the food, drink, and atmosphere make it well worth the investment. The bar is open from 8am until 11pm, Monday through Friday, so you can enjoy its offerings at any time of day.
In addition to the food and drink, Bar 1790 offers a range of events, including wine courses, tastings, dinners, and seminars. There are even plans to introduce a private members club in the future. These events are a great way to learn more about Portuguese wines and to meet other wine enthusiasts.
One thing to note is that Bar 1790 is not a large venue, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to dine with a larger group. The bar is popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak dining hours.
Bar 1790 is a must-visit for anyone who loves great food, drink, and history. The bar’s unique setting and impressive wine list make it a standout destination in the City of London. The menu is well-curated and offers a mix of traditional and modern dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. The service is exceptional, and the attention to detail is impressive. If you’re looking for a special evening out or just want to indulge in some delicious food and drink, Bar 1790 is the perfect destination. Book here!
- The Sandeman Quarter
- 19-23 St Swithins Lane, London, EC4N 8AD
