Balcony Bistro

Early closing prevents post-concert lingering at this, the Barbican’s mid-priced offering. It’s a pity: the long, thin dining room is more distinctive than the plusher Searcy’s, mixing Scandinavian & Asian modernism to good effect, & there’s a spacious balcony where tables overlooking the lake are bookable. The menu is a fairly straightforward affair, rustling up the likes of chicken liver pate with Melba toast, spiced apple compote & red onion chutney with perhaps a Moroccan lamb tagine with fig couscous to follow. If that sounds too fancy, alternatives include beef or veggie burgers & the ubiquitous chicken Caesar salad. The wine list is short but with plenty of affordable choice by the large or small glass.