Bronze Award
An impressive, three-storey modernist addition to Granary Square, this new pub-cum-dining room is furnished in an inviting, understated style with abundant natural wood and stylish leather. It is owned by a sister company to upmarket pub group Cubitt House – as evidenced by a menu incorporating many gastropub favourites. Even on a Monday, the street-level bar was abuzz with chatter, though the first-floor restaurant is a more formal proposition with wraparound terrace, floor-to-ceiling windows and friendly staff. Fish & chips and lamb shank are main-course fixtures, but the wood-fired grill is clearly the intended star, producing various seared cuts of meat, seafood dishes and burgers. Starters are generous; our cured trout with cucumber, spring onion and spiced mayo was wonderfully fresh-tasting, if heavily spiced. Unfortunately, a main course of Aberdeen Angus beef fillet arrived distinctly less rare than requested, paired with an over-seasoned peppercorn sauce. Roasted cod with celeriac purée, fennel and pumpkin seeds fared better, being flavoursome and light. The large drinks list has an eye on current trends, encompassing orange wine, craft ales and seasonal cocktails. But in a space already hosting the dependable likes of Caravan, we reckon there are better gastronomic options than the albeit attractive Lighterman.
What’s on The Lighterman menu?
There are a few different menus to choose from at The Lighterman depending on the time or day you dine. For the most part you’ll be choosing from the main menu, but there is also a special Sunday menu, a Saturday brunch menu and a kids menu too. The modern British dishes have a light European touch woven through them, and you’ll have the choice of plates like Norfolk lamb and wild garlic pie or pan-seared salmon with crushed potatoes and a seaweed butter.
Does The Lighterman have a terrace?
Yes, The Lighterman is famous for its terraces, which stretch across the restaurant’s three levels at King’s Cross. All of the Lighterman’s terraces have parasols and heaters to cater for all weather conditions.
How to book a table at The Lighterman
You can book a table at The Lighterman directly using the widget above, which allows you to check availability for your chosen time and date.
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020 3846 3400
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Anon
Most obnoxious host ever.Attended today at 5.40 pm for dinner and drinks.Host, Caucasian male, wearing a navy/black with thin white stripe polo shirt with shaved black hair, was so obnoxious. When I asked for a table on terrace he became rude and aggressive , arguing and "staring me out" I was so shocked and scared. I have never been treated so badly. Reported to manager and she was lovely and our drinks bill was waived. We chose not to eat there after such an awful experience and went elsewhere where the host was lovely and we had an amazing time.
Awful, awful man. Lighterman management- Please please ensure this awful man is not allowed to treat other customers this way.
Joanna H
Amazing - a real find !
n/a
Jillian
I had one of the priciest meals, sirloin steak and half a garlic bulb , extra for chips! Steak way to dry , chips already salted and garlic cold. Not going back.
Chiara P
Nicole P
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