Shed's horticultural label belies a lunching experience that far exceeds a couple of clingfilm-wrapped sandwiches on the allotment between rain showers. Tucked away behind a large glossy door between Gresham Street and Cheapside, the club offers an alternative to the usual lunchtime suspects in the Bank area, as well as being open for breakfast and dinner. It also provides an oasis for lunchtime or early evening drinks in the art deco bar area downstairs.
The decor is sharp and fresh, with an Eastern and Oriental take on its menu in the restaurant to match. An unhurried entree of butternut squash and leek dumplings with a wasabi sauce or an avocado, mango, pomelo and baby spinach salad followed by ginger soy steamed salmon with white radish, watercress and fennel salad were well accompanied by selections from an impressive wine list. From a full and varied entree list, the chef will put together an assortment for diners when time is tight. Diners can also take a table in the private room for privacy.
Depending on how long lunch lasts, you can take your coffee downstairs to the modern bar, which is also open for drinks. There's also a widescreen television as well as a quiet space if you want to get away from the buzz around the Bank area and just potter around.
Where: 17 Ironmonger Lane, London, EC2
Contact: 020 7796 4991
How much: £20 per head excluding wine
