Contented Vine

Contented Vine
17 Sussex St
www.contentedvine.com
March 20, 2010

If Cheers was based on a wine bar in Pimlico it would be the Vine. Friendly locals drop in and ask for their “usual supper”. Naturally there is a big wine list with special events and offers from time to time. The non boozers get complimentary mineral water on the tables. There are choices for the piglets and the menu changes regularly. We come back often – the frites are always a favourite and the staff are always charming. This hidden gem is particularly lovely if it ever stops raining in Blighty and patrons spill drunkenly into the street. HP

The variety in the menu is good and it does change regularly. Fare from the rotisserie is always good though on this occasion I had grilled calamari and the burger. The calamari was delightful crispy in places but not rubbery and had good flavour. It came on a bed of creamed chickpeas and a sweet chilli sauce (not sure if it was made or brought in). The burger was also good and they had some very keen mustard to go with it. OK, this is important. Toast the bun. Why? Because if you don’t the bun gets soggy and tends to fall apart while you are holding on to it. Not really a problem for me as the burger disappeared before the bun gave up. Yes, I told the staff. A bottle of Italian red competed the meal.
It really is an easy and enjoyable place to sit. Lovely leather chairs to sit in. And, after a meal you can always go to the bar counter and engage in some chat with some one else who is there. £60 and off to the next one. MP