Today we’re heading to one of my absolute favourite streets in the whole of London Town. Maiden Lane in Covent Garden is home to myriad bars and restaurants – the choice is quite mind-boggling. And there’s always somewhere new to try – like Lady of the Grapes.
This cosy little establishment describes itself as an organic wine bar and wine shop. It champions female winemakers with its extensive wine list. There are shelves along the walls packed with delicious deli products and there’s a delightful tapas menu.
What’s on the menu
We started off with a bowl of the freshest bread and some delightfully salty salami – with a side of tiny, crunchy cornichons.
There’s a wide cheesy choice and we went for the beautifully creamy blue which was served with the sweetness of preserved figs.
Luscious salmon gravlax was served on the freshest of bread and arrived looking a bit like a magical garden with the lovely fresh salad accompaniment.
I am partial to a pissaladiere – a kind of tart of caramelised onions topped with anchovies – and in this case some roast red peppers too. The simplest of things so often taste the best.
Here it is up close and glorious.
Lady of the Grapes is also a deli and the shelves are packed with bottles of delectable goodies and salamis hang temptingly, too. Don’t know how I resisted and didn’t take some home with me.
Lady of the Grapes is the sort of place I’d want to be my local. Perfect for a quick after-work drink and a bowl of olives or a leisurely dinner lingering over their lovely range of tapas dishes.
Service is warm and friendly and the place gave me an all-round feeling of happiness. Well, that’s Maiden Lane for you.
Lady of the Grapes is at 16 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden WC2
