Flat Iron Covent Garden

Meaty business

Flat Iron Covent Garden

The steak concept restaurant Flat Iron is going from strength to strength, it has just recently just launched its third site, and it is the biggest to date. Over two floors, with a cocktail bar and a butcher room, in the heart of Covent Garden. While the steaks at Flat Iron will never be as good as the very best from London, it is one of the best low budget steak mini restaurant chains. I always tend to order the specials rather than the standard Flat Iron cut, partly due to the lower quality of the texture. The sirloin was indeed fabulous, super tender and moist with the perfect seasoning, quality wise was not far off to Hawksmoor. However, I would love the fat was cooked a little longer to get a lovely crispy edge. The standard flat iron was not as tender, but still packed with rich meaty flavours. For me, the sauces were really not necessary as it takes away the delightful richness  of the lovely steak.

the feast!

spinach, aubergine and cabbages

The "special burger"

sirloin

salt caramel ice cream

Unlike other Flat Iron joints elsewhere, Covent Garden does not offer dessert. Instead you are given a free ice cream cone on your way out, with the ice cream supply from the ever reliable Italian ice cream maker Gelupo. I guess this is a great way to increase the restaurant's turnover, with a small investment in free dessert in exchange of getting extra covers... and now the more I think about it, I found Flat Iron's idea is actually super smart! To sum this place up, good quality steak at a great price. Bear in mind It is very unlikely you will spend just £10, with drink, side dishes plus service charge, you will be looking at north of £20 at least. Also it is a no book restaurant, expect to wait at least an hour at weekends.

Food 3/5

What I paid: 
£29 per head with a cocktail

Average cost without drinks and services:
£15

17-18 Henrietta St, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8QH

http://flatironsteak.co.uk/