Due to the lockdown, my dream 18th birthday party at STK London was cancelled. But in September, I finally had the chance to gather at the luxury restaurant for a family birthday.
Rating: 4/5
STK is a part of numerous chains in various locations across the US as well as international spots such as Dubai. It is exceedingly well-known for its aesthetic dining area, delicious steak, seafood, and drinks.
Within London, the steakhouse is considered to be a high-end restaurant, however, I managed to get a taste of that experience through a delightful 3-course meal with a glass of champagne for only £30 per person. I surprisingly found this offer on Bookatable.
Typically, STK’s menu is quite pricy but with the offer, this wasn’t too problematic. With the UK experiencing the worst recession in years, and a constantly rising unemployability rate, individuals, particularly students, should take advantage of sites like Bookatable, Groupon and Wowcher to make the most of nights out.
The modern steakhouse is located within ME London hotel on the Strand in central London. We step into the restaurant and the noise of the busy London streets is shut out behind us: instantly hit by the gust of warmth inside. I notice a nice and welcoming floral scent in the air.
Covid-19 measures
In compliance with Covid-19 measures: the staff at the entry point check to ensure we don’t have a temperature, we are wearing face coverings and use the hand sanitiser provided. We are then taken to our seating area by a waiter wearing a mask, but we are able to remove ours in line with the new rules imposed by Boris Johnson. Throughout STK, social distancing is reinforced, and Perspex screens are used between booths. This certainly creates the impression that the customers’ and employees’ safety is the establishment’s top priority.
The general aesthetic
Reinforcing the high-end perception, STK consists of beautiful glistening chandeliers and faux pink orchids. The décor is accompanied by spacious and clean seating areas, which allow us to feel comfortable during our time there. The most appealing nature of the aesthetic is the infectious vibe created through the use of purple lighting and tea candles establishing a surprisingly intimate atmosphere.
The use of the up-tempo house and commercial music brings the restaurant to life and blends in with the happy chattering of customers. All these factors contribute to STK’s swanky reputation, ensuring it appeals to their youthful demographic.
The food and beverages
Starters
For starters, my Grandma and Mum have the Scottish salmon, my Aunt chooses the salad, and I have the signature STK mini burgers. My Grandma and Mum find the salmon to be bursting with flavour and not overly filling. My Aunt finds the salad refreshing and relished in the fact that it is filled with avocadoes. I relatively enjoy the burgers, despite finding them a bit basic. Overall, we are very pleased with the starters.
Mains
Our starters are promptly cleared by the waiters and our mains arrive presented in a sophisticated manner. My Gran has the succulent chicken breast with rich maccaroni cheese as a side dish.
My Aunt opts for the organic salmon fillet with spinach, which she definitely loves, especially combined with the greens.
Finally, my Mum and I go for STK’s signature sirloin steak accompanied with fries and I top my steak with the lime & chilli king prawns. The steak is well done, tender, and juicy and I love the peppery barbecue sauce it is paired with. Although I feel as though the prawn lacks spice and more could have been provided for the price, we all enjoyed the mains nevertheless.
Dessert
For dessert, we have the delightful Belgian chocolate cake topped with chocolate ganache and served with cocoa crumble. We also order the New York cheesecake; the flavour of the raspberry positively tantalising the tastebuds.
Drinks
The champagne provided is crisp and the bubbles explode on my tongue. I also treat myself to the Summer Wrays cocktail during happy hour. I find the combination of white rum and exotic liqueurs very pleasing; it gives off a reminiscent taste of summer.
Instagramable spots
Besides STK’s food and beverages, the restaurant is famous for its Instagramable spots – where customers take aesthetic pictures. If you do end up visiting STK, they are worth trialling to add some glamour to your profile page.
The first spot I deem the perfect photo opportunity is the seating booths. The orchids, purple lighting and chandelier in the background, paired with your champagne in hand, screams high-end dining. It does indeed give people the impression that you are one of the A-listers who venture here frequently.
The second spot is located downstairs near the toilets and I simply loved the marble counter, tiled floor and the plant blossoming with flowers. It also helps that the colours of my clothes match the colour scheme of the charming location.
The third spot is the stairs leading from the toilets to the restaurant. The stairs are dark and dimly lit by the white lights on the rails. Taking a picture here creates the impression that you are the centre of attention.
The final spot, which according to visitors is STK’s most popular location for pictures, is located precisely in the ME London reception area. It features a tall gold geometric wall, which admittedly serves as a nice backdrop to any Instagram picture. However, if you wish to take a picture here your mask has to stay on.
Final thoughts
I adored STK London, the staff are lovely and attentive, and I enjoyed the food and beverages. For my Grandma’s birthday, the staff brought her a cheesecake spelling ‘happy birthday’ in a velvety chocolate sauce and birthday candle, obviously making her feel loved. If you desire a quality restaurant with retro vibes to visit with friends and family, you should wholly consider paying STK a visit.
The fact that the restaurant is high-end shouldn’t prevent you from visiting; even if you are a student. Websites like Bookatable promote offers and discounts for STK and other high-end restaurants in London. STK’s website also promotes offers like happy-hour if you’re after a chill evening.
I have unequivocally enjoyed the luxury experience, and I am sure you will too!