For any food enthusiast exploring London’s vibrant culinary scene, dining at Duck & Waffle is often considered a rite of passage. Perched atop the Heron Tower, this restaurant is not just about food; it’s about the experience of enjoying a meal at one of the UK’s highest dining destinations. Like many, securing a reservation felt like a mission, requiring a two-month advance booking and an early 9 am start on a Saturday. But the allure of breakfast in the sky was irresistible, and we finally made it, ready to discover if the reality lived up to the hype.
Setting the Scene: Ambiance and Location
Duck & Waffle’s 24/7 operation means it caters to various dining moods throughout the day, with distinct menus for each. We specifically chose breakfast, drawn by its reputation for being comparatively good value. Considering its altitude, the quality of ingredients, and typical London prices, breakfast here indeed felt like a smart indulgence. Having previously experienced Sushisamba, located just one floor below, which while offering great food, is decidedly less budget-friendly, Duck & Waffle seemed like a more accessible luxury.
Our breakfast outing was planned as the perfect start to a day with close university friends. Finally coordinating our schedules, we envisioned a day that began amongst the clouds, continued with an engaging HiddenCity hunt through London’s streets, and concluded with a relaxed evening of films and food at home. Duck & Waffle set the tone for a memorable day.
The Star of the Show: Duck & Waffle Food
Naturally, the “Duck & Waffle” dish itself was a must-order. Placed centrally on our table, it was designed for sharing – or so we initially thought. What ensued was a delightful scramble as we eagerly portioned out pieces of this iconic dish. For someone like myself, whose breakfast default is often Eggs Benedict, the menu’s Ox Cheek Benedict had already caught my eye the day before. To round out our order and explore the menu further, we also included a Full English Breakfast and Banana Brulee Waffles.
The Duck & Waffle lived up to every expectation. The waffles were wonderfully light and airy, providing the perfect base for the rich, crispy duck confit. The mustard maple dressing added a sweet and tangy counterpoint, all crowned with a perfectly fried duck egg. It was an impeccable combination of textures and flavors, leaving absolutely nothing on the plate. This dish is arguably one of the most Instagrammed in London, and for good reason.
Beyond the Duck: Exploring the Breakfast Menu
Moving on from the signature dish, the Ox Cheek Benedict was equally impressive. Tender ox cheek, shredded into delicate strands, was layered upon another perfectly made waffle. The poached eggs were flawlessly cooked, revealing vibrant golden yolks. While the Sriracha hollandaise sauce was a creative touch, personally, I felt the dish was so well-executed it could have stood perfectly with just a classic Hollandaise. However, this is a minor preference in an otherwise faultless dish.
In contrast, the Banana Brulee Waffles, chosen by my friends with a penchant for morning sweets, didn’t quite reach the same heights. While enjoyable, they were deemed somewhat underwhelming, especially when compared to the savory brilliance of the duck and waffle and the ox cheek benedict. The consensus was that the ice cream, though pleasant, didn’t elevate the dish to the level of the other savory options.
However, redeeming the sweet side of breakfast, the Full English Breakfast was exceptionally well-crafted. Featuring crispy bacon, perfectly poached eggs, sautéed mushrooms, grilled tomato, and a truly delightful scone, it was a testament to quality ingredients and careful preparation. Each component was cooked to perfection, making it a standout version of this classic breakfast staple.
Views from the 40th Floor
Of course, a significant part of the Duck & Waffle experience is the view. Located on the 40th floor of the Heron Tower, the panoramic vistas of London are breathtaking. While personal preferences might lean towards cityscapes like Zurich or Barcelona, there’s an undeniable magic to being suspended high above London, watching the city awaken. The restaurant itself is bathed in natural light, creating a welcoming and airy atmosphere. Surprisingly, despite its prestigious location, Duck & Waffle maintains an unpretentious vibe, especially when contrasted with the more overtly glamorous Sushisamba below.
Is Duck & Waffle Breakfast Worth It?
So, the crucial question: is breakfast at Duck & Waffle truly worth the effort and cost? The answer is a resounding yes. The novelty of gazing across London’s expansive cityscape while enjoying fresh orange juice is a wonderful experience in itself. The restaurant’s ambiance is bright and inviting, and the atmosphere is refreshingly relaxed. While the tea and coffee prices might be a bit steep, the breakfast menu overall is reasonably priced, particularly by London standards. Dishes like the Ox Cheek Benedict and, of course, the signature Duck & Waffle, are compelling reasons to visit.
