Sagardi

Tuleton steak in the UK

Cod fish omlette

When you think of top-grade steak, it is normal for most to think of Japanese wagyu to be the king of steak. However, I found while the texture of wagyu steak is excellent with a melting texture, I much prefer something more bold and savory in taste, which wagyu steak lacks. Therefore, the Spanish old cow 'Tuleton' steak is what I prefer. The cow aged up to 15+ years old before being slaughtered and offers a powerful creamy and beefy taste that no steak can match. The Rubia Gallega breed from the North Western of Spain is especially considered the finest. Not many London restaurants offer such a fine cut but Sagardi is one of them.

Pan fried cod with garlic and red peppers

Grilled red peppers

In Spain's tradition, Tuleton steak is always served in a prim ribs cut, cooked over an open fire, and that is what Sagardi does too. I opted for the Basque cider house tasting menu which is a menu contains sausages, cod fish, steak and cheese, and very common to find a similar menu when you visit any of the Basque cider house farms in Northern Spain. Sagardi's version I would say is less impressive given the much higher price tag (£76 per person) while getting less portion. However, I found the steak was outstanding, that charred surface, bold and crispy, cooked perfectly. The meat itself was not the most tender or moist, but it had such a powerful beefy umami taste, it was one of the most enjoyable steak meals in the UK for me.

1.2kg Rubia Gallega

Basque cheesecake with raspberries

Perhaps I have eaten the real deal and many times in Spain, so Sargrdi's version couldn't compare which is understandable. But if I have no plan to travel, Sagardi perhaps is as close as you can get for a Basque Cider House meal experience. If you are a steak lover, I would suggest coming in go for the steak with some side dishes only to enjoy. Those prime ribs come in no less than 1kg so unless you are seriously hungry, is best to come in at least a pair to enjoy the tuleton beast.

Food 3/5


What I paid: 
£99 per head with wine

Average cost without drinks and services:
£70

Cordy House, 95 Curtain Rd, London EC2A 3BS

https://sagardi.co.uk/