Culture vultures can prey on some delicious food while they’re in the Moorgate and Barbican areas. Designed in the 1980s as a modernist ‘machine for living,’ the Barbican Centre still contains flats, but is best known for its status as an arts centre, housing many world-class theatre performances, film showings, and art exhibitions. Barbican and neighbouring Moorgate are part of the historic City of London. With its narrow streets and ancient churches, the area is also, by contrast, a fast-paced business district. Restaurants in Barbican are smart and high-end, with chic décor and a great selection of world cuisines.
Talking of smart places to eat, Off the Wall Bar & Restaurant does a great line in very sleek modernist décor, with natural stone and marble features. Food-wise, the restaurant, which is named after the nearby London Wall, is all about delicious modern European classics such as butternut squash risotto, or Scottish sirloin steak.
Amongst the many smart Moorgate restaurants, it can be a challenge to find somewhere informal. The Apium Noodle Bar comes to the rescue, and is a real stand-out choice, especially if you’re looking for something speedy and reasonably priced, served in a relaxed atmosphere. Expect delicious Malaysian and Far-Eastern fayre.
