Last Outpost — Restaurant in London

I went to Last Outpost with some high hopes of a little gem of a restaurant on my doorstep based on reviews that I'd read. I felt let down and a little sad by my experience. I visited with friends, and our expectations were high. Bistro with a West Indian , mainly Trinidadian fllavour. Mmmmmmmm. Strong flavours, aromatics and colour. But...no. we didn't get that. Not really. The starters of spring rolls and samosas were spot on. Flavourful. The firecracker chicken wings had some punch, but had to be sent back as they were undercooked. The apology was dished up with the assurance that 'at least you know that the food is freshly prepared'. Make of that what you will.

There was a substantial wait between the starters and mains, which we didn't realise at first because we were chatting amongst ourselves as well as with the owner of the business. When our orders came (salmon and old time fisherman's broth), there was a sense that all that the menu promised was left out of the food. The fisherman's broth, with all of its ingredients, tasted of nothing...no piquancy to challenge the seafood flavours. In fact, not much seafood flavour. I asked for lemon to lift the dish. This was readily provided. It helped, but it didn't save it. The sea bass on top of the broth was lovely. The bread that accompanied the broth - not good at all. Not many complaints about the salmon.

The desserts got mixed reviews. The fruit crumble was well received, but the eton mess lacked actual fresh berries - the sauce provided was not bad though. My dining companion felt that there was distinct lack of meringue in her portion. I had loads...and lots of cream to boot.

Our server was diligent, pleasant, and very attentive. We left a tip for her via a raised service charge. I hope she gets it. She earned it. The mixologist who made our free cocktails made me a mean virgin mojito that managed to divert my mind from my main course offering.

The amiable owner of Last Outpost spoke at length about his journey, his food ethos and what his dream was for his business. But I believe food must speak for itself...and the food really did...loud and clear. It was confused, a little tired and perhaps in need of an injection of real creativity at slightly reduced prices. Maybe I chose the wrong dishes... This place could be brilliant, really gem-like, but think it needs to decide what it is. It needs to focus on this if it is to win, and I soooooo want it to win! What does it stand for? Who needs educating about exciting Trini-British flavours? I do, but I don't think I received that education on my visit. I hope I didn't. I wish I had - I'd be writing a different...

I discovered the Last Outpost by luck, having reported the death of my father with my sister and made arrangements, I walked past and see the sign happy hour, I walked in had a beer, a Tuesday afternoon, yes it was quiet, but I felt comfortable, that comfortable that I asked if it was possible to hire the place for the wake, the chairs were comfortable, toilets clean, within a couple of days we had spoke to Azeem and the Chef, they tailored a menu to suit us, and believe me a Wake that was such a cross section of age and dietary tastes. The food was absolutely amazing we over catered, the hot menu was a fantastic with vegetarian choices and the sauces absolutely were fantastic. Our guests were going back two and three times. Although we had a lot of non drinkers they were looked after so well, the bar staff could not have been more helpful, even allowing our playlist of our Dads favourite songs. We did not have to do a single thing except turn up and leave, I have can only thank everyone involved again, such a stressful time losing our Dad but this gave him the send off he...

A lovely restaurant with amazing staff, food and atmosphere. Being local, I often come here to enjoy cocktails, tasty food and some chill-out time with friends and family - and because it is dog-friendly, I no longer need to leave my fur-baby behind PERFECT!

They have happy hour from 6pm to 7pm, where you can have 2 for 1 on cocktails and mocktails. Offering different cuisine menus, you can enjoy Asian on Tuesdays, Caribbean on Wednesdays (highly recommended), Sunday Roast (also highly recommended) and traditional menu (including vegetarian).

The restaurant inside is elegantly decorated. While seated, you get a view of the bar, kitchen and outdoor space. The outdoor space is large and can easily accommodate large groups of people. It's a relaxed space with a huge canopy, giving enough privacy from the pass-by traffic. In the evenings, this space is illuminated with fairy lights - stunning!

A local and underrated gem, with great value for money with...