Reviews of Aqua Shard

London, GB

4.1
177 reviews
5
76
4
58
3
15
2
6
1
6
Google: 18
Zomato: 159
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Jennifer Newell
Google a month ago
5.0
I had a beautiful surprise when my family took me for a three course meal at Aqua Shard. The view was breathtaking, and the service was amiable. Special compliment to our gracious waiter, Francesco, who was very supportive throughout our experience. Each course was tasty. The pairing of wines with each course was spot on, and the cocktails had us buzzing. I highly recommend this place not only for a special occasion but also for a treat to yourself. Even the bathroom was worth visiting. Top class service from start to finish. I will definitely go back soon with friends 🥰
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Joanne Laing
Google a week ago
5.0
I surprised my friend and booked the weekend brunch with wine paring. I read the reviews and wasn’t expecting too much from the food as it was suggested that you’re paying for the views, but the food was absolutely delicious! Our experience was amazing from start to finish. Our waiter Antonio was so friendly and knowledgeable - he was very patient and helped us chose our dishes and wines. He also arranged for a lovely table in the bar area after. We came for brunch and stayed for most of the evening. All the staff were very attentive, I’m going to book again and bring my husband later this month.
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Lily Ly
Google a month ago
5.0
Had such a great fine dining experience here. I went for dinner with my colleagues on a Thursday evening. We were able to watch the sunset, the views were incredible. Service was truly excellent from the moment we walked in to the moment we walked out. Our waiter, Joe, was fantastic and made great recommendations throughout, despite us asking too many questions. Every item we tasted was presented beautifully and tasted exquisite. A heads up, this is fine dining so if you're looking for cheap and huge portions, this is not for you. But if you're looking for quality it's perfect.
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Will Fox
Google a month ago
5.0
My first visit to the Shard was a wonderful and memorable experience. Great atmosphere, welcoming staff, delicious food, and stunning views of London. I loved the menus for both food and drink. Service was fast, efficient, friendly, and professional. Portions are on the small side (the only reason I can't give 5 stars for the food subcategory on this review), but everything else was flawless. My friend and I stayed for nearly two hours and had a great time. We would definitely return some time.
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John Goodden
Google a month ago
5.0
Came here to celebrate my wife's birthday. Had an amazing table beside the window, with a mirrored pillar beside us, so it felt like our own private dining area. Despite a rainy evening, we had fantastic views across London. Our waitress was lovely - friendly and attentive. The food was well presented and tasted great. Would be glad to return in future. Thanks for a lovely evening.
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Kelly Appleby
Google a week ago
5.0
Peter Pan afternoon tea was lovely! It was all the little details like the smoke coming from the bottom of the boat. Makes it look like its coming through the clouds, loved the jelly crocodiles in the treasure chest! Service was very good and love the fact that all hot drinks were free, including hot chocolate and coffees.
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Roman Gudkov
Google a month ago
4.0
A very good restaurant. Good atmosphere, great service, tasty food. Our waitress was very nice and polite. Lamb main was very good. Nice view of London, especially at twilight when all the city lights come on. Very pricey though. £265 for 2 adults and a child. Even though we only had one starter to share and didn't have much wine. Wine portions felt like 150ml. A bit small for £18 a glass
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Teofanis Papadopulos
Google a week ago
4.0
Celebrating a special occasion with my fiancé, we decided to visit the Aqua Shard. From the outset, the atmosphere was inviting and set a perfect tone for our anniversary. The staff's impeccable service further enhanced our dining experience. The highlight of our meal was undoubtedly the Eggs Benedict which was impeccably prepared, and the fluffy pancakes, which were an absolute delight. However, the Shard Breakfast left me with mixed feelings. While I appreciated the unique addition of the scotch egg, the hashbrown and pickled tomatoes did not appeal to my palate. All in all, our visit to the Aqua Shard was memorable. For those in search of a refined dining experience with an emphasis on atmosphere and service, it is certainly worth a visit. Just be prepared to encounter some dishes that might challenge your taste buds!
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Wale Dawodu
Google 3 days ago
5.0
Ambience is really great, the view is stunning. One of the few places you can capture a great view of London. Food was fine and fancy, we celebrated a friend’s birthday dinner and the service was professional as well. Likely to see me again :)
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Tammy King
Google 5 days ago
5.0
Lunch with my 3 best friends, exceptional food, wine and atmosphere. Our waiter Fabio was marvellous and the team dealt with my nut allergy with no fuss. We loved our experience there and would love to return. Thank you team Aqua Shard.
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Steph Golding
Google 2 weeks ago
5.0
If I could give this 10 stars I would. Whole experience was absolutely incredible. Delicious food, breathtaking views and the staff treated me and my friend like we were number one priority. I was running 20min late for my table and although it was my 30th birthday I couldn’t thank the staff enough for amending my reservation last minute. I will definitely be returning. If you want to know what luxury experience feels like this is the place to go. Thank you Aqua. See you soon x
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Jen Downs
Google 2 weeks ago
5.0
We had a fantastic meal at the Aqua Shard last night. Firstly - the spectacular view over London from our table. Definitely worth going just for the view! But the food was incredible and we had amazing service from Anton who was helpful, kind and friendly. He was very attentive and made the experience wonderful for us. Definitely recommend a meal at Aqua Shard!
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Alessia Basile
Google 2 weeks ago
5.0
I recently dined at Aqua Shard and it was an absolutely fantastic experience. The service was impeccable; the staff was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. The restaurant's location is stunning, with breathtaking views that added to the overall ambiance. As for the food, it was a culinary delight! Each dish was a burst of flavor, and the presentation was as exquisite as the taste. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect restaurant for our anniversary.
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Alice T
Google 3 weeks ago
5.0
The lifts up are slightly confusing from the ground as they only have the no.32 button and it’s not until you are standing in the lift you hear the voice say don’t touch any buttons and then when you are on level 32 you walk down the steps to level 31. The restaurant is very clean and fashionable. We had the Peter Pan afternoon tea which was delicious and presented beautifully. The waitress was very attentive and knowledgable. We ran over our allotted time so we’re moved to another table and given the remainder of our food in a takeaway box. Unfortunately no one offered to take our order for a drink in 2 hours. We were to busy catching up to get up and find someone but it would have been nice to have been offered another drink while we continued our catch up. Especially the adventure tea which was delicious and I’d highly recommend. Overall a really enjoyable afternoon with fabulous views.
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Sara
Google 3 weeks ago
5.0
We visited the Aquashard for brunch for my sons birthday 🥳 We were seated at a table with amazing views - a definite 5 stars from my son who is passionate about the architecture in London. Our waiter was delightful and attentive (he even sang happy birthday to my son!) The food was absolutely delicious, a taste explosion and the portion sizes were perfect. I will definitely be visiting again, it was a wonderful birthday treat and the food from appearance to taste was 10/10 🥰
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ellie belle
Google 2 months ago
5.0
Our first visit to The Aqua Shard. We had a great table by the window lovely views and then the beautiful sunset views. All the staff were very friendly and especially our server Taylor who was so pleasant and helpful and knowledgeable about the menu. The food was delicious, no problem there. We had the Pan Seared Halibut and the Beef Fillet with side dishes. The Shard dessert and the Strawberry and Champagne Sphere were lush. Thank you for the Happy Birthday dessert for my son. Nice touch. Great cocktails also. The only negative I could give is we were surprised/disappointed that you charge for bread and butter on the table. We have eaten in many restaurants and the bread/or olives are usually free whilst you wait for your starters. Two pieces of small bread (serves 2 it states. one piece each) for £6 we found quite shocking to be honest. When you are spending over £250+ you would think the small amount of bread would be free?! Apart from that, we did have a lovely time overall.
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Alberto Carpita
Google 2 months ago
5.0
From the first moment you feel taken care by the staff. We arrived ten minutes early and we have been accommodated on a waiting table, it was comfortable and we got served at the table with drinks from the bar. Our table was just in front of the window, a glass wall from the floor up to the ceiling which let you fully enjoy the breathtaking view over the city. Service, food and drinks are at top level quality in all their extent, and after the three course meal proposed in the menu we were definitely satisfied also for what it concerns the quantity. Wine pairing with each course is a must. Overall an extremely pleasant experience I would recommend to all those who appreciate excellent cuisine.
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Tina Massingham
Google 2 months ago
5.0
I came here with my daughter as a treat and I can not fault anything. We were taken to our table which was by the window and received 5 star service from start to finish. The food was delicious and as it is a fine dining restaurant I thought the portion sizes were just right. My daughter didn’t stop smiling all night and in the taxi back to the hotel admitted her cheeks hurt. I will definitely come back again and recommend to anyone
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Silver Tinkle
Zomato 5 months ago
5.0
It still has something special, but not quite as special as before the refurb. I had a decent pre-opera set-meal at the bar. My duck egg with black pudding was OK, but the black pudding was all hard and crispy.
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Foodie Trails
Zomato 8 months ago
4.0
We went for a drink and we were lucky to get seats next to Windows! The views are amazing and the layout of the place is great. Staff were very friendly and helpful but as expected it is expensive! Beer, the size which is slightly smaller than a pint is around £7. The cocktails are £16 per glass and were pretty average to be honest
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Miro Loves
Zomato 8 months ago
4.5
Absolutely great place to indulge in delicious platters in filling portions at the best prices, prompt and punctual service with the help of a really nice and friendly staff as well.
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Adhith Rajesh
Zomato 8 months ago
5.0
Interactive fine dining experience. Highly recommended all round. Well looked after by knowledgeable staff, chef and kitchen staff presenting food. Very impressed.
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Kaus
Zomato 9 months ago
4.0
Decided to get a view of the city and enjoy a drink. So, headed to the bar - lucky to get a seat on a Saturday afternoon. The wine was good and the assorted nuts even better. Enjoy the view, but do check out their bathroom - a true Room with a View!!
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Priyanshu
Zomato 10 months ago
5.0
came on the crawl on Saturday and Hannah was a great host. She made sure that everyone was having a good time and that no one was left behind! It was a great way to meet people and I had so much fun!
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Manish Patel
Zomato 10 months ago
5.0
Excellent eating experience.. from walking in the door and being greeted by employee, seated and drink order taken, was maybe 5 minutes. Meal was served hot and excellent taste...
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RaphaEspíritoSanto
Zomato 11 months ago
5.0
Amazing place in London. I love the food. can’t wait to come back here again. Congratulations to the staff.
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Robert Harris
Zomato 11 months ago
5.0
Surprisingly the Prices were not as high as I expected it before. Of Course you pay a Little bit more, but the view is just amazing especially when there is good weather. The food was also good, even I would not come back to a regular Restaurant because the food did not taste extraordinary. But Overall it was a great experience and we will come back for sure! :D
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Foodie World
Zomato Sep 11, 2019
4.0
View from the top is amazing. The food and ambiance goes so well together. Perfect for date nights. Decent service, its a bit expensive though. Celebrated here and had a good time.
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Antoine Awad
Zomato Jul 20, 2019
5.0
Amazing experience. Everything on point. Worth every penny. Food was crafted with passion and drinks/cocktails were really good and innovative. Highly recommended. They have such a great panoramic view and the service is professional. Try their deaserts for a perfect ending.
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Ankur Gupta
Zomato Jul 07, 2019
4.0
No doubt this is one of the best most go to place in London. Situated at 31/32 floor at The Shards, the London view that you get from this place is amazing and so are the drinks . Drinks, Food, a good company and you will never want to leave this place.
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Nicole Lombard
Zomato Jun 18, 2019
3.0
The food was rather good but overpriced for what it was. There's not really any atmosphere. I think people mostly come for the view. Wouldn't necessarily go again.
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Prabhat Roy
Zomato Apr 06, 2019
5.0
Came here for a quick, pre-gig bite followed by a cheeky £5 cocktail in Seven bar opposite. The place was a bit hectic and twice we were told we couldn't sit on empty tables despite having placed our order. Apparently there was a system, but god knows what it was. Ultimately we ended up eating stood up at the bar opposite a rather persistent barman whose attempts to move us onto alcohol proved a little tiring. That said, it was well intentioned and the food was decent. The fries were excellent and the quality of the chicken in the burger was good. Will have to come back again to get a broader opinion on the menu as our choices were a little unadventurous on this occasion. <br/><br/>NB. The gig was exceptional, if you don't like War on drugs or haven't heard of them yet, what are you doing?
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Suraj Punjabi
Zomato Mar 02, 2019
4.0
Restaurant with a view is rear to find. So we decided to go to Aqua Shard to grab some coffee and breads. I absolutely loved the ambience and the view from the restaurant. It's crazy.
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Avani Jog
Zomato Feb 28, 2019
4.0
We visited during the lunch hour and we were lucky we got a clear, sunny day. We got a lunch time meal deal and the 3 course was well worth the price. We visited on a Friday so it was a bit quite so try and choose a weekday if you want to avoid rush. They are toddler friendly too.
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FoOdZoNe
Zomato Feb 18, 2019
5.0
It was an perfect place for hanging out with friends and family their ambience is super duper fantastic perfect view one can admire this place its so beautiful we tried shard full English breakfast, Scottish hanger steak,and salted caramel chocolate maousse and they were too tasty and mouth watering . Everything thing was perfect there from food to ambience to staff to service all are fantastic
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Khaane Ka Jaankaar
Zomato Feb 14, 2019
3.0
Bahut hi Swadisht vyanjaan milta h yaha. Yaha Aap sabhi aao or lutf uthaao yaha k Khaane Ka. Mjhe to yaha Aakr Bahut hi Majaa aaya. Aap b aao
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Roger Saade
Zomato Feb 10, 2019
5.0
A must visit ! Breathtaking view over London and The Thames river . This panoramic restaurant-bar offers great cocktails and pleasant ambiance . We took a table by the window and we enjoyed the amazing view . Good is good , drinks and great and staff are friendly .
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Lionel Bart
Zomato Dec 15, 2018
2.0
The food is average at best. The restaurant was busy and the kitchen got a bit out of sync. We have been waiting for quite a while and the dishes arrived at different times. The waiter did his best to cope with the chaos. Nice views, though.
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Memoirs Of A Metro Girl
Zomato Dec 12, 2018
4.0
When dining at a sky-high venue, it’s always hit and miss if the weather will be on your side. On the afternoon we visited, London was suffering from questionable weather, but we managed to get a clear enough view for the first hour of our meal before the rain came down.
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Diwakar Bhati
Zomato Nov 26, 2018
4.0
The service was impeccable. The views are stunning. The food was variable. Superb starter but my main course was at best mediocre with roast potatoes roasted yesterday. It is not cheap so one expects better and the rose wine while delicious was hideously overpriced and only one on offer. They are saved by the view which makes an adequate lunching experience more than that.
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Pratik Pilankar
Zomato Nov 25, 2018
5.0
Great experience - cocktail in Hand, standing on 31st floor of Shard. Over looking the London Bridge and other skyscrapers. <br/>Ambience 5/5<br/>Staff is very friendly 5/5<br/>Food and drinks are bit expensive but it’s worth it with the view 4/5<br/>Overall, We had a great night 👍🏻
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Aryan Pathak
Zomato Nov 09, 2018
4.0
Of course, the Shard is impressive and the Aquashard looks great, but it's huge. Very busy with customers, probably like us, to see the view which is spectacular. We were there for cocktails which were excellent though minuscule and credit card-meltingly expensive, but then you're paying for the experience. Didn't eat, so can't comment, but for you men out there, you have to experience the loos - makes you want to have a weak bladder!
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Dr. Adish Jagirdar
Zomato Oct 04, 2018
5.0
WOW should be the name of this place instead of Aqua Shard!<br/>Well, if you are in London or planning a trip there than this is a must visit place.<br/>The Shard London is the one of the tallest & beautiful building in the central london.<br/>The view which you get to see from Aqua Shard is worth visiting this place.<br/>Well the menu is quite expensive but it doesn’t matter when you are having your coffee at the London’s best hotel<br/>Truly in love with Aqua Shard.<br/>
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Aditya Karwa
Zomato Sep 24, 2018
5.0
The best place in London for sundowners, <br/><br/>Fantastic view , great atmosphere , good drinks and food , expensive but worth , please book in advance , if you get a table here you save the money for going on top of shard to have city view.
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Chiarra Bianca Abanil
Zomato Sep 23, 2018
1.0
While this place is great for viewing London from the top, they have very poor customer service. You wait for an hour before the food is served, still incomplete. Then you wait for another half hour for the main course, then another half hour for the bill. The food is not as grand as you expect this place to be, and it is too dark you could doze off.
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Ipsita D
Zomato Sep 13, 2018
4.0
After wanting to go to this place for quite some time, happened to visit it finally! For high tea ☕️ <br/>The views from Aqua Shard are absolutely breathtaking! The skyline looks very pretty from the top! We went there for an afternoon high tea and the food served to us was a delight as well. The ambience around also reflects the Modern architecture. The high ceilings and natural light define the interiors. We had to book well in advance. <br/>Only thing that we felt was the staff being a little less courteous.
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SelinJami
Zomato Aug 23, 2018
5.0
Has one of the best restaurant&bar views in London, absolutely beautiful. Fine dining dinner menu is not complicated, with quite simple ingredients, but delicious! Balance and texture of each ingredient were very well thought-out, every plate pleased our eyes. As a sum, we had a great night. My only con is: service might be better (comparing its competitors in London). Final note: they state smart casual as a dress code, but there were many people wearing daily t-shirts, so obviously no hard rules on “smart”!
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Ankit Malik
Zomato Aug 16, 2018
4.0
One of the most memorable restaurant I have ever visited it is located an 32nd floor the view from here is spectacle. Or the most impressive view of the city perfect place for drinks .the place is highly recommended. food is amazing.
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David Touma
Zomato Aug 09, 2018
5.0
One of the most fantastic top fancy restaurant i ever was in!!! My hat goes down for all the staff and the professional chef!!! I had with my gang some since aubrey dry aged and it was more than amazing
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Love Sharma
Zomato Aug 01, 2018
3.0
This place came as most recommended by some of our friends but our visit was hardly mind blowing. The lunch was not that great compared to some of the others in the past. We went for the 5-course set menu and opted for 2-deserts. The service was patchy; good at one point and bad on the other. If you're in London and craving fine, expensive Indian cuisine, you can give this place a try; albeit at your own risk & expense.
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Yogyata Kumar
Zomato Jul 30, 2018
1.0
This is the most polite and friendly I can get, but I regret to inform that I have not come across a more unprofessional staff and “restaurant” in my life. I was actually “asked” to read the website before coming as they have some *** rules about where to sit and what to order. I was asked to vacate the table as the main course I ordered “couldn’t be prepared in time” and I couldn’t sit if I don’t have main course.<br/>I’m really disgusted by the behaviour and the unprofessional attitude. Couple it with the “rules and regulations”, and one thing is for sure, I’m never coming back here, nor recommending it to any living soul. <br/>Acting pricey will not get you guys anywhere. 👍🏻
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Swarnendu Khan
Zomato Jul 25, 2018
5.0
One of the most memorable restaurants I have ever visited. Located on the 32nd floor of the Shard tower, you can get a breath-taking view of the entire London city, specially it's more beautiful at night.<br/>We had visited with some good friends and tried salmon, duck and red wine there. Food was pretty awesome and people were very supportive and friendly there.<br/>A lifetime experience.
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Radha Chhita-Nathoo
Zomato Jul 11, 2018
5.0
The most impressive view of the city. <br/>Perfect place for drinks be it during the day or at night. The view is just breath taking. <br/>Highly recommend. <br/>
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Dumba
Zomato Jun 20, 2018
5.0
The views over the city from this restaurant are absolutely amazing. On top of that, the service is impeccable and the food is great. Highly recommended for a special dining experience.
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Dan Norton
Zomato Jun 20, 2018
4.0
Went here for breakfast and of course you are paying for the location more than anything else (36 floor of the Shard) but we really enjoyed ourselves. We had the Lobster Benedict (very indulgent!) and the avocado smash with coffees and some pastry’s. Very expensive for a breakfast but fun none the less. <br/>If you’ve got a special occasion to celebrate then I would recommend
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Joana Dos Santos Alves
Zomato Feb 22, 2018
5.0
The Aqua Shard is a very special place for me. On the 27th of January 2017 I got engaged over the amazing view from the restaurant, after a delicious dinner served by a really polite and nice waiter. I wasn’t expecting getting an engagement ring on that day, but it was one of the best surprises ever and I think my fiancé couldn’t think of a best place to do it. So, guys out there, if you want to impress your girlfriends, I’m sure that Aqua Shard is the best place to do it. You have to book it in advance, but as soon as you get there you’ll see that the waiting time was completely worthwhile. The views are breathtaking. You can also visit the place just for drinks, and for that you don’t have to book. You spend less money if you go just for drinks but you’ll have the same experience. <br/><br/>I would like to thank the Aqua Shard team that, even though they didn’t know I was getting engaged, made the night so special, full of amazing food, amazing wine and an amazing service! We will be back soon!
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Kanishka Jain
Zomato Feb 18, 2018
5.0
Brilliant view of the city, great drink options!<br/>Getting a place to sit can be difficult, but standing by the bar is great.<br/>Aptly located at the bank of Thames overlooking the tower bridge !
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Vikas Yadav
Zomato Dec 24, 2017
4.5
That high rating of 4.5 is mostly for the view - it’s breathtaking! What a view of London city.<br/><br/>Food is very good but I think I couldn’t focus much on it - all thanks to amazing view. Attaching some pictures.<br/>
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Sara Kiani
Zomato Oct 07, 2017
4.0
Been here. View is lovely drinks are lovely but over priced. Since i live in Dubai and there are a gazilluon buildings which are tall with a view but i think this one just takes advantage of it lol its actually funny how they call it "tall"
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Shiv Kumar
Zomato Oct 01, 2017
3.5
Best high altitude restaurant in London. Best view with excellent service & sumptuous menu in the city. Best place for Dinner & Drinks with friends.
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Vibha Hegde
Zomato Sep 30, 2017
1.0
The worst thing I have ever put in my mouth. My dog's puke would probably taste better. Took my husband here for his bday dinner. So disappointed. Didn't eat anything. Just paid the bill. The drinks were good though. So that's something. Will not be going here again. Can't imagine why this place is so full all the time and has a 3 month waiting... probably the view. To make it all much worse, the staff is arrogant though not downright rude. The weird part was when our waiter told us we couldn't order just one starter with our drinks and had to order atleast one main course per person. What's up with that?? It's like they know their food sucks and need to make a sale before we put anything in our mouth.
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Kathleen Dudette
Zomato Jul 30, 2017
5.0
I have always been so interested in the Shard since I first heard about it. So I was scrolling through my instagram one day and saw a photo of a lady having an afternoon tea in Aqua Shard. And then I thought I must really try this. So yes I did with my friend. We booked a table and a few weeks after that we headed to the Aqua Shard. It was a gloomy afternoon so after shopping we headed straight there. The restaurant was so cosy and it was dim lighted so you can see the 360° view of London. Mind you that was a beautiful sight. Because the afternoon tea was running kinda late (probably due to a lot of guests) so we were given champagne courtesy of Aqua. It was a nice touch. Food wise, uhhh it was lovely and scrumptious! I just loved all of it. The service was good but I think it was so dim that I can't even see the face of my friend lol. Also the toilet was over looking the whole city of London too! Amazing isn't it? Over all experience was great and I highly recommend this place 100% 👌🏻<br/><br/>TOV: November 2014
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Karthik
Zomato Jul 02, 2017
4.0
A busy place situated in top of Shangri-la. Always busy due to the scenery it provides in the night. For food, you definitely have to make reservations. The words are very attentive and service levels are exceptional.
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Sanghidheeraj1
Zomato Jun 17, 2017
1.0
Heard lot about aqua shard. No Terrace, very rude staff. Most of the time they try to give table which dont have any view. Pathetic experience overll...highly over rated. Other roof tops in world are much better than Aqua Shard... avoidable
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Foodie
Zomato Jun 15, 2017
1.5
The evening started with me requesting for a window table - I was refused politely. Another couple that requested for the same thing just 5 seconds before us was informed that they would try and was promptly seated at the window table in 5 mins. Coincidence I'm sure ... Through the evening I spotted at least 3 empty tables next to the window.... :) The views are nice but you can't do much sitting that far away. Anyhow moving on - The burrata was nice, the spinach with the cod was bitter, the lamb dish was okay. Only our smiling server managed to make us feel a bit welcome but the damage was done before then. Overall an average experience for the price!
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Taymoor Arshad
Zomato Apr 29, 2017
3.5
The food, in particular, the cod that I had was very average. Desserts were very good though. And if your lucky to be seated near the windows, the views are great!
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Matt Walters
Zomato Apr 28, 2017
5.0
Great food, great atmosphere. For optimal results, book a table to catch the sunrise or sunset (or both) to witness London's skyline with a golden hue, 31 floors up.
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M. Faisal Siddiqui
Zomato Apr 09, 2017
4.5
Fantastic place outstanding location, price not high, great staff...pure joy, fantastic food, awsome ambience, great taste, royal service, .....
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DianaW
Zomato Mar 25, 2017
5.0
Amazing experience for the views alone. Service second to none treated like Royalty from entering to exit. Drinks just wow but pricey! (to be expected) Divine sweets & delicate sandwiches
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Hilary
Zomato Mar 04, 2017
5.0
I went to acqua shard cocktail bar! I had one of the best cocktail of my life with an amazing view of London! The atmosphere is magic! Staff is a bit posh but I think it completely suits the bar style!
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Mayochup
Zomato Feb 13, 2017
4.0
For a Valentines treat, I decided to take Mrs Mayochup to dinner at The Shard and on the 32nd floor, high above London, we were at Aqua Shard. The menu is compact therefore it is safe to assume they wish to perfect every item on there. The Shard have installed security screening (the same as you find when going through security at any airport) and you are required to take off your jackets and bags for it to be screened. If you have booked a table for a certain time, please allow 10 minutes go get through the queue.
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TheSavoringChef
Zomato Jan 29, 2017
4.5
What a great view of the entire city. The best time to visit this place would be after the sun has set because you can see the entire London lit up and it's the most beautiful thing. Great food as well
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Varun Ghai
Zomato Dec 18, 2016
5.0
The best anyone can ever get for a pure british fine dining with an amazing view and amazing ambience and decor.<br/>Great food with great atmosphere and pleasent staff. Ideal place for a birthday or a marriage proposal ;)<br/>Cheers
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Jade
Zomato Nov 26, 2016
5.0
We booked last minute for an afternoon lunch and the service was impeccable. Fantastic food and very generous portions, particularly for Desserts. David (Front of House Manager) went above and beyond to ensure we received a table with a view and had the best experience.
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Meghana Nair
Zomato Nov 14, 2016
3.5
Good times call for unusual places, and I had the fixed course lunch at this beautiful place for my bday!! <br/>If you do not already know, Aqua Shard offers one of the best views of the city. It is perfect for a date or like me a lunch with my closest friends on a memorable day, well you can't afford fancy places every day right! <br/>The cuisine here is British, and the menu does not offer too many choices if you're someone like me who eats red meat sparingly the selection can be a bit limited. It's an ever changing menu <br/>The desserts were a bit down; the chocolate mousse was supremely average, and the deconstructed cake was just about okay. <br/> The service is exceptional, and our server went beyond to make our meal memorable, I was even given a complimentary ice cream with Happy Birthday written on the place because my friend happens to mention that it's my bday. <br/>Go here for the lovely views of the city and the warm hospitality. Also, make sure you arrive here after making a reservation. <br/>Keep Gobbling xxx
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Akash
Zomato Nov 07, 2016
5.0
This place was on my list for almost a year, and finally i happen to visit it on my birthday.Located in the tallest building of the europe The Shard, this place is a must  for anyone in london.The view of whole of  London is mesmerizing while sipping in the wine. A perfect place for the date.<br/>Its good to reach there early, so that you could grab a seat by the windows (just if you are going for the drinks). Else table reservation is recommended, as it gets full, much in advance. Ambiance nails it in the night, with candles lit across the tables in restaurant. Food is good, Cocktails are excellent. I had passion fruit with Brulee .Place is pricey, but its worth it all.
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Oliver
Zomato Oct 20, 2016
4.0
Whilst the cocktails made for us were all of a decent standard, it never felt like the barman was really listening to us. The party next to us was being made the same drinks as us except he was using him in theirs and vodka in ours so it never felt very personal. He spent more time promoting his app to us than he did deciding what cocktails we would like. My partner especially just seemed to get virtually the same drink everything and got a bit bored of it.
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TheHungryCouple
Zomato Aug 19, 2016
4.0
Aqua Shard has a very sensual feel to it. Located at the top Western Europe's tallest building- The Shard, it is an absolute must even if it's just for one drink at the bar. The view is outstanding, soaking up London's Skyline with a drink in your hand makes you feel all tingly inside. For us as Australians, the drinks were seriously, seriously pricey, we paid $40 AUD or 18£ for The Queen's 90th Birthday Cocktail- We must say it was the best cocktail we have ever had and for that price you would hope it would be! <br/><br/>TIP: FOOD- If you are going for a meal you simply must book in advance. DRINKS- Walk In's only and generally not super busy, so you will be able to find a nice cosy spot around the bar.
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Neelendra Nath
Zomato Jul 30, 2016
3.5
Aqua Shard is more about the experiential dining than the food itself thus it is unfair if I lean my review a lot on the food quality/quantity/taste. But since it is a restaurant, it can't escape that.<br/><br/>The place needs a pre booking and if you cancel there is a charge person for that. One can not book a specific table in the restaurant. The view from here is what it is sought after for but all the tables by the sides are only for 2 so you aren't going to get that if you are more than that.<br/><br/>The place has a very short and specialised menu and have a stupid rule which says each person on table must order two courses to themselves. If you insist on people to order, you might want to keep a longer menu.<br/><br/>The staff while were mostly courteous, a couple did come across a bit rude. The service was not very quick.<br/><br/>A lot more was expected from a place of such fame.
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Lisa Gabriella Jasmine Strovall-Harf
Zomato Jul 13, 2016
3.5
WOW!! The most spectacular VIEW over London imaginable. If you lucky enough to be able to grab a seat by the window, its a no brainer, DO IT! I could clearly see the beautiful Tower Bridge and Thames river in all its glory as well as some other prime London landmarks, it could keep you busy for hours just watching the city.<br/>As it was a bit of a spur of the moment decision on a day sightseeing, I wasn't fully dressed for the occasion (wearing white sneakers) however they still let us in along with pretty much most other tourists, however be prepared for some eyes and sighs from the waiters as they slightly judge you-this can be a little uncomfortable so I would suggest planning your visit in advance and dressing up a little-or at least not wearing sneakers/jeans.<br/>We had cocktails and some whiskey, my favourite cocktail of which was the 'Wimbledon Cocktail', a play on what Wimbledon is known for, strawberries and cream. It had Gin, Cointreau, strawberry jam, lemon, Pimms and a Lemonade foam, it was delicious, and presented nicely.<br/><br/>The service leaves a very bitter taste however,hence the rating. It took ages to be served, I felt like they were avoiding us almost, and we kept having to wave over the waiters. Worst of all upon paying the bill, where 12.5% service charge was included already, I settled the full bill in cash including the service fee and the waiter never ever returned with our change, which was around 45 pounds. I feel like this was a cheek to even assume that he could keep it (especially when I had settled a service fee already ,the service was terrible,as well as this being almost the full value of our bill), after 30 minutes of waiting for our change we eventually had to go find another waiter to ask them to bring us our change, our original waiter didn't even have the decency to return the change himself.<br/><br/>I would like to return one day, but purely for the view, and possibly to give their food a try when I have more time.
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Rachel Hawkins
Zomato Jun 30, 2016
4.0
This place has a big reputation! We were super lucky and has a window seat with spectacular views of the city for Sunday brunch (Window seats are tables for only 2, if you're bigger than 2 no window seat for you). The setting is amazing and the food was good, very good. BUT the service from our waiter was poor- our starters arrived before he even asked if we wanted a drink! The Waiter was slow and didn't ask if we wanted extra drinks we had to continually look for him to get some service. My verdict would be that it's is a great restaurant- especially for visitors to the city. But it's over priced for the service that we received.
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Karen Tien
Zomato Jun 10, 2016
5.0
Went for my birthday and was no disappointed at all. The food was absolutely fantastic and the staff were great. I always feel awkward in these places but I really enjoyed myself.
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Jem Coco
Zomato May 27, 2016
3.5
Only cold drinks are served at the Aqua Shard and I didn't feel like drinking alcoholic so I opted for a mocktail. They didn't have a mocktail list to give me so the waiter insisted he will make me something good. I asked for a berries base Mocktail. He gave me this virgin mocktail and it looks pretty to look at although this was too sweet for my liking. It tasted like I was only drinking berries sugar syrup with ice and fresh mint. Since I couldn't drink it as it was too sweet I decided to just going for a glass of Sauvignon blanc to make things easier. The waiter wasn't too happy that I returned the full glass of mocktail. If I can't drink it then I should order something I'd be able to drink. Next time I wouldn't go for a mocktail. The view would have been better if it wasn't cloudy but that's not the restaurants fault. Maybe the night lights city view would be better.
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Planes & Champagne
Zomato May 17, 2016
4.0
The Shard has to be one of my favourite landmarks in London and is without doubt, the most recognisable building in the City. I’ve visited many times for drinks, however never for food, up until now. Last week, instead of making your typical dinner reservation, I opted for breakfast with a view at Aqua Shard.
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Dean
Zomato May 16, 2016
4.5
Traditional seasonal British food with an amazing view to match... Plus the views from the toilets are incredible. We started with beetroot cured salmon, lobster benedict, the mains of braisedWelsh hogget, then on to peanut parfait and cherry Bakewell tart to end off an incredible birthday brunch
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Life Of A Travel Czar
Zomato Mar 07, 2016
4.0
So I am at the bar which is meant to be the ‘place to be” in London. Its got views, cool cocktails and the crowd is very look at moi! I waltz in just as lunch hour is about to kick-off and find a seat next window with a lovely view over the whole of ole’ London town!. In a city where service can be super patchy, I am blessed with a really lovely waitress who has my kinda charm, a bubbly personality (and yes, she is beautiful). Don’t get too excited…it doesn’t go down the James Bond – shaken not stirred kinda cocktail ordering experience, but I do find her charm to be the perfect tonic for the winter chill that grips the London air.
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Veronica Saha
Zomato Feb 26, 2016
4.5
The best restaurant with an incredible view I have visited in London I would say...the food and the ambience was equally great,a nice variety of cocktails and wines are available... With British dinner cooked to the perfection...my hotel wasn't nearby still I gave it a try because of the view...thumbs up...try to get the sunset view table... For a romantic dine out...
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Alan Crowe
Zomato Feb 22, 2016
3.0
Been here several times for drinks and find it very hit and miss. At times it can feel very elegant and welcoming, and others it feels like you're caught in a novelty tourist trap. They try to keep a strict dress code, yet at times there's many people in white trainers. The cocktails, depending on your selection, can range from high flavour, high in alcohol masterpieces, to a ceramic teapot covered in icing sugar tack which is what I experienced on my last visit. Not only was this messy, but also felt really cheap for the setting. The staff, on my experiences have also ranged from the most helpful people you can meet to the rudest. The view however is amazing if you manage to get a seat by the window which are like gold dust. Worth a visit to save you paying £30 to get into the Shard though.
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Elle Bloggs
Zomato Feb 08, 2016
3.5
Breakfast is hands down one of my favourite meals of the day. I can eat breakfast for lunch. I can eat breakfast for dinner and I can even be persuaded to get up at 7am to travel across London for it.   . So what is this breakfast for which you would leave at 7am you ask? This breakfast in question was 31 floors up in the air and over at one of London's most impressive buildings - The Shard. I'm just going to caveat this by saying that the experience was why I got up early before we all get carried away...
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Lawrence Hill
Zomato Dec 31, 2015
5.0
Oh. My. Word. Worth visiting if only for the view, absolutely stunning looking out across London. Try and book a table around sunset. <br/><br/>The food is outstanding, visually perfect and tastes amazing, some great flavour combos. Also have a very good cocktail menu. The best restaurant I have ever been to.
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Mike Dalley
Zomato Nov 11, 2015
3.5
The flight from Dubai to London really was horrific, reaffirming my desire never, ever to fly with British Airways ever again (and I really do try to refrain from slagging off actual companies on T.F.T.). The last four times I have flown with them, there has been some kind of issue. This time, aside from a delayed take-off (which may or may not have been their fault but I am going to assume it was, as everything always seems to be), it is to be assumed that the electrics failed in the cabin. I say ‘assumed’, as it was an overnight flight, I was hungover and passed out as soon as I was seated, but came to as we taxied to the stand at Heathrow, awaking to a gloomy cabin, T.V. screens not working and a man next to me moaning to the flight attendant like a pro. Turns out all the non-essential electrics, such as entertainment systems, lighting and the stuff to keep food warm (oh, yeah, dinner was cancelled apparently) all stopped working. The crew looked forlorn, meekly handing out compensation cards. I lost mine at baggage reclaim.<br/><br/>I didn't mind that much; all I cared about was quick and unmolested passage from the stand to St. James’ in Central London, where an early check-in and a shower at my hotel were hopefully awaiting. And sure enough, in some kind of record, I was off the dingy airplane, through immigration, baggage reclaim, onto the Heathrow Express and chatting to the doorman in the rain on the doorstep of the hotel in a little over two hours… now that has to be a record. There was more than enough time for a quick shower and change of undies and then straight back out.<br/><br/>It was, sadly, early. Like half-eight in the morning early, and I was shattered. However I was also ravenous, and that was a good thing as I was off to London Bridge to meet my good friend and one-time guest-blogger Ed, for breakfast back in the sky. <br/><br/>The last time I took a stroll through London Bridge Station it was a bit of a mess, in the last stages of a nightmare reconstruction to compliment the shininess of the London Bridge Quarter. A year or so later, the station is… still a mess, albeit with a little fewer ‘coming soon’ signs but now but chunks of boarded-up mystery that diverting confused tourists (lamentably, I am now one of them, a sheep in the shuffling hordes) into the direct fire of the last rush of commuters scurrying to work. I hate that London is no longer home.  <br/><br/>Meeting Ed, we made our way to the building that would host us for breakfast. That building is the centrepiece of the London Bridge Quarter - The Shard. We ran to escape the spitting rain and of course into the wrong entrance of this tall, pointy lynchpin of Modern London, the entrance which will take you into the sad Shangri-La Hotel. The doorman, who should really be in a job away from human beings, gruffly pointed us outside and around to the door which would lead us to the high speed elevators that whisk hungry, jet-lagged people to the thirty-first floor, and Aqua Shard.<br/><br/>Aqua Shard is a big shiny void of a restaurant, offering all-day dining with unreal views of this wonderful city, which on this day, stretched out before us like an endless grey throw, almost ethereally, but tangible enough to make me miss London more, and more, and more. The dining room is brilliantly devoted almost entirely to this vista, with comfy but plain chairs and tables, light-fittings and occasional furniture that do not let you forget that you are about to pay premium prices but at the same time fall a thankful and distant second to the direction of your gaze, which will inevitably be trained through the sheer window, out to the city beyond.<br/><br/>Such was the allure of the magnificent view (and every table, including ones not in the window, are guaranteed one), that we neglected to review the breakfast menu. With Ed running out of time as he was working later, and the friendly waitress getting ever more edgy with the prospect of having to give us the lunch menu instead (or maybe even the afternoon tea menu, or dinner card), we quickly ordered two Full English Breakfasts.<br/><br/>For a couple of growing lads, this was an obvious choice really, a ray of sunshine in an otherwise pretentious menu consisting of pastries, baps and things only an idiot would order, like Lobster Benedict. In fairness, the dressed up names of some of the components of our full English would likely consign Ed and myself to the bulging ‘Aqua idiot’ file as well, but we were already having breakfast in a swanky little joint at the top of a swanky little tower in the newest swanky part of London, so, maybe we were doomed even before we sat down.<br/><br/>You know what, you couldn't really fault the (Cotwold Legbar) eggs, (Maynard’s Farm Treacle-cured) smoked streaky back bacon, (Cumberland) sausage, (Bermondsey salted) ricotta and (sourdough) toast, but I don't know, don't we all want some grubbiness with a full English? I mean, the tidiness of its presentation had me as smitten as did the view, but there were no baked beans (on the plate I mean, not as part of the view). I mean come on… did we lose a war since I moved to Dubai? And to this day I couldn't tell you what makes Cotswold Legbar eggs so special from the Al Jazira Poultry Farm L.L.C. brand I buy back here, not when they’re drowned under an inch of Heinz tomato sauce.<br/><br/>So we ordered coffee to wash it down with, of good enough quality to justify its extortionate price, and of course some fresh juice, but in hindsight a round of Breakfast Martinis to complement the enchanting breakfast was one of the better choices I made during those two drizzly days in London. Dinner that evening, at Flat Iron in Soho was Awesome with a capital ‘A’, but at the same time a comedy of errors, one that I may recount when I get my shit together with this blog, and there is more time to devote to the cause of stories that don't really show me in a good light.<br/><br/>I did enjoy this early morning martini, the yellow pansy garnish being the only calming thing about its sharp, grapefurit-laced tang. In many ways, the cocktail summed up the whole Aqua Shard experience - pricey, flowery-but-somewhat-serious, definitely decent, served up surrounded by glass and a damn good choice, if a somewhat guilty one. But hey, it had been a heavy twelve hours.  <br/><br/>My belly was full of gin, and despite being somewhat full of food as well, it seemed to yearn more. I trudged back to the hotel, stopping to get a duffin and a fatty latte from Starbucks, consuming it in bed. My last phone call before a deep slumber was to confirm dinner plans. It was wonderful to be back home.
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Luca Brunello Zaccagnino
Zomato Nov 02, 2015
4.0
The food is good-ish and the selection of wines is quite nice. The location and the environment are impressive, making this a recommended place for special occasions or to take out people visiting London. It's quite pricey, but that's fair considering all the above.
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Forfoodssake
Zomato Oct 14, 2015
4.5
Alex: Having only a few days in the wonderful city of London, meant I was scarce with time and really had to do my research to find more than good quality pub food that we all know London has. Don’t get me wrong, I made sure to fit one of those in on my hectic 2 nights, but I wanted something that I was going to remember forever.
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Matt101
Zomato Oct 09, 2015
3.0
Wow what a view ..........ok you got me this isn't the first time I have eaten at the aqua shard (enter shocked music) I did eat here previously but the experience wasn't great so I thought I'll give it another go as maybe it was an off day ........... Sadly it wasn't :(.<br/>The decor is excellent the views are spectacular and the services is attentive pleasant but not intrusive. There are some really delights on the drinks menu to accompany your meal hence why I love coming here just for a tipple or two.<br/>It's just the food where it lets itself down, don't get me wrong it's not horrid but I just don't see where the cost of the meal is attributed to as it certainly, is not the quality of the ingredients nor the flavours that supposedly blow u away...... I would recommend people give it a shot for the experience and the ambiance/view but I do think it's much to do about nothing I've had worse but also a lot better <br/><br/>Plus point - the staff are great :)<br/>
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South London Blog
Zomato Sep 21, 2015
4.5
I really like going out for breakfast and I’m always on the lookout for new places to go, so when someone recommended Aqua Shard I just had to go – not least because I hadn’t actually got round to seeing the view from South London’s most iconic building. So I arranged to meet a friend and booked a table (through OpenTable – nearly got another freebie coming!). We went on a Friday and it was virtually full, so booking is recommended.
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Asporca Keser
Zomato Sep 14, 2015
4.0
If you ask what makes it so special, I say '"it's view" without doubt. It's of the kind that makes you tell yourself that "I'm crazy in love with lovely London💓" I know it's menu is also pretty good but whatever you eat will be always delish when you look at that damn view. So that is well worth a visit ✌😋
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Erin Niimi Longhurst
Zomato Aug 31, 2015
3.5
On Sunday evening, a few of us went down to the Aqua Shard bar on the 31st floor of the Shard to celebrate a birthday. I’m not the most confident with heights, but even I couldn’t resist going up and having a look for myself! As you can’t book ahead at the bar, we were taking a massive gamble by arriving with a group of 11. When I told my friend later on about the evening, he pictured the scene just like this:
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Balbinder Singh Bhatia
Zomato Aug 29, 2015
4.5
View, View, View - breathtaking view of amazing London!<br/><br/>Our friends were in town to see London, and we planned our day to kickoff with breakfast at this lovely place - Shard, the tallest building in UK! <br/><br/>Instead of spending 40-50 pounds for best view from (72nd floor), we opted to have English breakfast for 15 pounds at 22nd floor of this beautiful architecture. And, it was a brilliant decision.<br/><br/>Good food and good view, and we were off to a brilliant day in London!! No doubt, our friends were super impressed ;)
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Jaklien
Zomato Aug 25, 2015
5.0
Have you been wanting to go up to The View at the Shard in London, but don't really fancy dishing out the sky-high entrance fee? Then here's an insider tip for you. Head on up to Aqua bar and restaurant at the Shard for absolutely free. That's right, free, nada, zilch. The views are pretty much the same as from The View platform albeit it from a couple of floors lower, however for the same price you get a table with a view and 4 glasses of wine, or 4 beers, or 2 cocktails. Whatever tickles your fancy.
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Em
Zomato Aug 23, 2015
2.0
There is something so special about having a day off when it is sunny, knowing that the rest of your colleagues are stuck in the office. Yesterday I got to be free for a day, on a normal weekday can you believe it? Usually I would save my days off for something special but yesterday was just because! Me and my friend were very excited to have lunch up in the blue sky at Aqua Shard located on the 31st floor. As requested, they were kind enough to give us window seats and it was beautiful. The view was amazing, the food was far from it
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Wanderlust Italia
Zomato Aug 01, 2015
4.0
La vista della città dalle enormi vetrate trasparenti vale ogni pound speso...l'ambiente è elegante con cocktail da 14/16£. Da provare almeno una volta.
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Pholoso Kate Masilela
Zomato Apr 12, 2015
5.0
Took an hour to get in but was completely worth it. Amazing bewildered of London. The champagne high tea is amazing and the selection of pastries is to die for!! I put this on my "before you die" London list!! 5 stars!!
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Kristine Diana Tsiknaki
Zomato Mar 12, 2015
4.5
For a relaxed
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Shakira
Zomato Feb 26, 2015
3.5
The familiar sights of London’s archetypal skyline – the Gherkin, St Paul’s Cathedral and the London Eye – have a new companion. The impressive Shard, which opened in 2013, stands above 300 metres high with 87 floors housing offices, restaurants, bars and a hotel. <br/><br/>With those amazing numbers in mind, you can imagine that a drink at Aqua was on my to-do list. Unfortunately I had heard and read reviews of medicore food at Aqua so I decided to stick to drinks at the bar followed by dinner at Hutong. <br/><br/>Aqua's bar was buzzing and filled with trendy Londoners enjoying a warm and dry Friday evening. At 8 o’clock it was still light outside (don’t you just love summer?) and I could truly appreciate the spectacular view of our capital. <br/><br/>Honestly, the experience of getting served was not pleasant. It took far too long to get one beer and one glass of bubbly - the bartenders were all too busy spending five minutes preparing each extremely intricate cocktail. Maybe I should have ordered one to justify the wait (the ‘beetle juice’ looked especially enticing). <br/><br/>I loved the view but it wasn't worth the wait at the bar. Next time I'll head straight up to the bar at Hutong to appreciate the same view but from one level higher.
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Bruno Alves
Zomato Feb 24, 2015
3.0
Nothing out of ordinary. For the price you can get more value in a lot of other places in London. <br/>Good views but don't bother to pay for it hence the food is just normal.
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Eat My Shorts
Zomato Feb 23, 2015
4.5
I picked Aqua shard over the Hutong next door because I wasn't a big fan when I visited the restaurant in Hong Kong. The view is stunning of course, and the food was definitely top notch. The beef carpaccio was decorated with tuna drops, drizzled with olive oil and squid ink. My favorite dish was the salmon, the pekoe purée topped with rosemary leaves mix perfectly well with the roasted beets and brussel sprouts. The panna cotta was too sour for my taste so I would recommend the cheese platter more. The couple that sat next to us proposed and it was a really sweet moment to witness. :)
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Gaby
Zomato Jan 25, 2015
5.0
Magnificent place to dine at ! You get the view of London and enjoy your cuisines! A very recomended place to go to at London especially to have a romantic dinner with someone special !
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Foodexpectations
Zomato Jan 15, 2015
0.0
The meal at Aqua was ok, but for £48 for a three course brunch (only available option), I wouldn’t go back. To be honest, none of the dishes were good enough to make me go back, even if it was a la carte. But the view was still lovely and we all enjoyed the experience.  
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Steph Chan
Zomato Jan 04, 2015
0.0
...The Shard at what is western Europe’s tallest building , it’s floor-to-ceiling windows allows it to offer a spectacular 360 degree view of London. The Shard is a relatively new structure, completed in 2012 and opened in February 2013. Aqua Shard opened mid June 2013. The restaurant, very contemporary, with the interior – plain, but somewhat distinguishably British, and the dim-lit lights subtly gives it the finishing touch for a cosmopolitan and modern feel. The meal: This is my second visit to Aqua Shard, and the first one turned out to be pretty disappointing, I was left very unimpressed. However, the menu has considerably changed since my last visit, and surpassed my low expectations for this place. A meal intended to celebrate Christmas and New Years with my family came out to be a meal well spent! Warm house bread with cheesy butter, and normal butter We had 3 toppings of the free house bread, couldn’t get my hands off of them… Breath taking views of the London skyline – a view not seen from all seats of the restaurants though! Festive Shrimps £15-17 Slow-poached veal fillet £14.50 Real Cornish Crab Salad £15.50 Slow poached veal fillet consisted of tuna mousse, bone marrow, elderflower and caper vinaigrette. Real Cornish crab salad consisted of red pepper, chives, shallot, bull’s blood micr
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Laura Milillo
Zomato Dec 18, 2014
5.0
I came here for lunch a while ago. The restaurant was incredible: impeccable service, amazing view and atmosphere. My friend tried the market lunch menu while I had only a starter. We both loved our choices. It was the best crab of my life!
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Manuela Fumarola
Zomato Dec 08, 2014
5.0
What can I say about Acqua Shard? I would say it is quite pointless to describe how fancy this place is. It sells more an experience than a drink itself. <br/><br/>I had some mulled wine - looking forward to trying as everyone was talking about it, but I didnt enjoy the taste. Even though, the breathless view from the shard over Tower Bridge, which is so Christmasish now, did compensate for it.<br/><br/>Worth the cost. Amazing place!
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Phillip Nwaukoni
Zomato Dec 06, 2014
3.5
I came here with some friends to have a drink and catch up and the view was impeccable. I didn’t have any food but… I wish I did. It looked very good, tasty and colorful. I hear it is very expensive and from the price of the drinks, it probably is. I loved the view here and scenery. Around the bar, it is quite crowded but not unbearable.  <br/><br/>Regardless of the pricing, I will be returning her for a nice meal and hopefully it is worth it.
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Gabriella M
Zomato Dec 04, 2014
4.5
I came to the Aqua Shard bar and had a really great time. They don't take reservations and I was worried that it would be really crowded and hard to get in on a Friday night but instead, there was no line and we got our drinks right away. <br/><br/>I absolutely recommend coming here, especially because of the view. The restaurant is on several floors but they merge into one main area and the windows are huge, you really get an amazing view of London. <br/><br/>The drinks we had were really well done, and if you don't know what you want they can make some really good and original drinks for you. The drinks were a bit pricey but I thought it was warranted given the view and the great service we got. Overall I had a really great night, and can't wait to come back again!
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Sarah Guershon
Zomato Dec 01, 2014
3.5
The main reason to come here, is the view, and my God, what a treat you're in for. When you spend so much time in London, it's easy to take it for granted, but when you're faced with the floor to ceiling windows at the Aqua the Shard, you can do nothing but appreciate how truly spectacular the city is. <br/><br/>As far as I'm concerned, the best way to enjoy such an awe-inspiring cityscape is with a relaxing afternoon tea. It's not cheap, but then you wouldn't expect it to be. They've paid a lot of attention to presentation as well as service, and I like the way they've tried to put a modern twist on old classics such as the Orange Blossom scone. <br/> <br/>Despite its upmarket setting, the atmosphere is very relaxed, perhaps because everyone is happy sitting back and enjoying the view. Which, of course, is no bad thing.
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Ria Thomas
Zomato Nov 30, 2014
3.5
Really excellent service and the food was amazing and not as expensive as I was expecting. We watched the sun go down which was really romantic. The dessert was really tasty. The drinks are a little in the expensive side.
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Dana
Zomato Nov 24, 2014
3.0
The place is absolutely beautiful with a great view and beautiful ambiance but I was disappointed with the waiter in the bar area. I asked him several times if they have any cakes or anything sweet but not in the restaurant area. He kept on saying they don't do any desserts apart from the restaurant and when we left we realised they actually have a tea room which was 3 tables distance from us. Clearly, we didn't know how the place is sectioned that's why we asked. He was very unhelpful and I don't understand why. What does it take to give some information to your clients?<br/>I will probably go back again because I don't want my experience to be completely spoiled by a not bothered waiter but I have to give them a low rate this time.
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Ana Pombo
Zomato Nov 04, 2014
2.5
I think a lot of people will agree with me, but the only impressive thing here is the view. And the view is truly beautiful, but that's about it. The decor is okay, it didn't wow me though. Again, the service is just okay, nothing special (seems like I'm going to be very repetitive here). And the food (dare I say it) was okay... I ordered the salmon, and I think it was good and presented nicely, but still didn't have the flavours to really impress me and stick in my mind. And this place is expensive! As you would expect from a restaurant with this view, but then it's frustrating that its menu can be so disappointing. <br/><br/>All in all, a very mediocre restaurant with an incredible view. But I will not be coming back here, I don't think it was really worth the money.
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Em
Zomato Nov 01, 2014
2.0
I visited Aqua Shard at the beginning of the year for a lunch - as requested, they kindly gave us window seats and it was beautiful.The restaurant was lively but relaxed and full of business people on their lunches.<br/><br/>We opted for the 3-course set menu for £28. It seemed like a pretty good deal at the time.. The starters rolled in quite quickly.<br/><br/>* Potato & Purple carrot soup – courgette ribbons, carrot agar and foie gras cream. I’m usually not the one for soups but the taste and thick texture of this was great.<br/>* Tartar from the land and sea – hand cut beef, smoked tuna loin, turnips cooked with organic cider, pickled onion puree and crispy potatoes. The flavour was very strong and each ingredient on the side complimented the tartar, not to mention the dish was well presented.<br/><br/>So far so good we thought, little did we know our jaws were in for one hell of a workout for the chewy main course.- Scottish Black Angus skirt steak – caramelised shallots, Norfolk radish & truffle salad and green peppercorn sauce. This was the 2nd worst steak I've ever had in my life. The restaurant manager kindly assured us that "the meat is supposed to be this chewy". If this truly was the case, it should have been mentioned by the waitress when specifically requesting for the meat to be made tender. On a positive note, the potato-mash was creamy and dreamy.<br/><br/>On to the dessert!<br/>* This buttermilk panna cotta – confit rhubarb salad and spiced biscuit was OK at it’s best. It tasted very cheap.<br/>* You can never go wrong with a cheese platter with wine for dessert so this one is a safe option, I can’t complain.<br/><br/>Verdict: Overall the view is gorgeous and you go there for that solely because in all honesty, the food and service isn’t worth the money for what is it. Expect the bill with service, sides and drinks to come up to a minimum of £40 per head. Avoid
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Palash Dugar
Zomato Oct 26, 2014
5.0
5 stars the ambience and the location! Plus 5 stars more to the view! The whole of london is visible! Please visit the place at night and relish the cocktails!
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Stephan Joseph
Zomato Oct 25, 2014
4.5
It was my friend's birthday and she organised a cocktail night in the Shard. The view from this restaurant is absolutely stunning. The decor is very classy and lights are dimmed so that the focus really is towards the stunning London view. <br/><br/>We were only a small group and queued round the bar for our cocktails. The bartenders are extremely skilled and acrobatic while making these cocktails. This unfortunately does lead to long wait just to get a single drink and the drinks are also pricey, but hey it's London and you are in the Shard. The cocktails were amazing and we all tried a variety of different drinks.<br/><br/>And YES, definitely go to the toilet, it's an amazing feeling to look at the view while taking a pi.. erm you know what I mean! I would return here in the future to try out their range of sea food.
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Marcometti
Zomato Oct 22, 2014
4.0
Great location, ok food<br/><br/>My parents and me saw this restaurant on the Internet while walking around this area and thought it was so good to sit there and enjoy the view. <br/><br/>Found it again on Zomato, this place offers a location that is just nice as it's not conventional. I was also hoping that would mean the food would be better.<br/><br/>We ended up getting some “open crab ravioli”, salmon, and salad were our selections. The ravioli pasta was better than we'd had at other restaurants in London. The salmon wasn’t well cooked, and the salad was basic. You also can get some desserts which were all good.<br/><br/>Prices were decent. Our bill was £25 each for all of the above. Again, the location was great and it probably worth a try if you are around.<br/><br/>I probably wouldn't return to this restaurant except for the fantastic view.
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Michelle
Zomato Oct 04, 2014
3.5
I took clients to lunch here for a spoil, the view should have been amazing however we chose a gloomy day so you couldn't see very far at all. The portions of food are really small so don't expect to be full afterwards. I had the duck which was the best meal out of the table in my opinion. Thumbs up to the chef on presentation and taste. My colleague ordered the rainbow trout which was tiny and the table laughed and commented that we would need to get Take Out after we left. The service was fine but nothing ground breaking. <br/><br/>I will go back again to try out the ladies high tea that I have heard about but in my opinion it is over priced for the experience.<br/>Oh, and the toilets are very funky and blue lighting...
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Finlay Freeman
Zomato Sep 26, 2014
3.0
I recently tried this bar and was quite disappointed with it's service. The drinks were pretty good but the service was lukewarm. The staff was quite terse, rude and indifferent. The ambience was great with beautiful decor and comfortable seating. The views from this place are amazing. Thus, I would love to visit this place again.
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Cameron Mcdonald
Zomato Sep 22, 2014
4.0
I recently tried this bar and had a great time. The drinks were exceptional and I hadn't tasted anything like that before. The ambience is great with wonderful views> the service is pretty efficient with the staff being quite warm and friendly. Thus, I would love to visit this place again and would recommend others to try it as well.
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Imogen Clark
Zomato Sep 22, 2014
5.0
This was the best place to go and have your meal. In all aspects the view was amazing, the service was great, the waiters were friendly and very helpful.<br/>The best part of it is their food, it was delicious. I had blue lobster muffin with scrambled egg and they were the best I ever had.<br/>I'm definitely coming back here again.
 
 Josh  Sykes
Zomato Sep 21, 2014
2.0
I recently tried this upscale place and was quite disappointed with it. The ambience was great with beautiful views and wonderful interiors. The food was pretty bad, though. The quality of food was below average and was not at all worth the price that we paid for it. Thus, I would not like to visit this place again and would recommend others to skip it as well.
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Jamie Williamson
Zomato Sep 20, 2014
1.0
This place is rather fancy, and boasts of a fantastic view of London’s skyline. If you arrive early for your dinner reservation, they might even take you into the bar for a cocktail to spice things up a little so that you don’t get bored of having the same view all the time. I enjoy going to bars with a view and this one is spectacular. The food is priced quite high though.
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Beatrice Fisher
Zomato Sep 18, 2014
4.0
I had one of the most memorable meal with my boyfriend at this place. The view from this place was mesmerizing and spectacular. The music in the background was a bit loud but it gave an overall nice feel to the fancy restaurant. Although, the food was quite average but the whole experience was incredible.
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Finlay Nash
Zomato Sep 17, 2014
3.0
You could only visit this place once or twice if you have to show off your city to someone who has come to visit you but that is just about it. The drinks are on the expensive side. You will definitely enjoy them whilst you gaze at the magnificent skyline in complete awe of the place. The management here is cashing on the fact they have located their restaurant at an amazing place.
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Edward Perry
Zomato Sep 16, 2014
3.0
I happened to visit this place a couple of weeks ago with some of my friends from school and had a disappointing experience. We started with ordering some cocktails and a couple of beers. The cocktails were the worst we ever had and did not taste like Mojitos at all. <br/>I guess because of the fact that the place is buzzing with people, they don't care about their customers at all. I would never think of visiting this place again.
 
 Harley  Hobbs
Zomato Sep 15, 2014
1.0
I had a disappointing experience here. The view is very good from here but not everything lies in the view. The quality of the food is just okay and it also does not give you true value for your money. The service is also not that good , the staff is bit rude. <br/>I do not think that I will give this place another visit again.
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Maria Campbell
Zomato Sep 11, 2014
5.0
A couple of months ago, my parents were visiting me and I decided to take them to this place for a nice dinner. It was an awesome decision to visit this place, as we had a great time and were treated royally from the moment we arrived at the place. Almost all the dishes we ordered were nicely prepared and tasted delicious. The view of the place is pretty amazing as well and the overall experience was exceptionally good.<br/>I would love to visit this place again.
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Ishika Chander
Zomato Sep 08, 2014
3.0
I would recommend you to visit this place with a small group of friends for a lovely meal. the menu that they offer is generally a set one but you would enjoy everything that is on offer. The staff is attentive to your needs and will make you feel comfortable in whatever way possible. I would say it is a little expensive place for somebody who does not want to spend too much. The staff can be a little rude at times which might not be pleasing to you.
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Billy Ferguson
Zomato Sep 05, 2014
4.0
Located in an amazing area this place possesses an amazing view and brilliant ambiance. The decor is quite fancy and very exquisite. The staff members are very well coordinated and provide an excellent service. The only area that has scope of improvement is the food. Apart from that everything is amazing about this place.
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James Stewart
Zomato Sep 03, 2014
4.5
It was my my husbands birthday and i wanted to take him to some special place. I am glad that i chose this place. This place is thirty one floors up with a view of London skyline. Perfect for a romantic dinner! On top of it, this place serves some really good British food backed by impeccable service.
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Jatin Devan
Zomato Sep 01, 2014
3.0
The view of this place is outstanding and definitely the highlight of this place. The staff is pretentious and tries too hard. They seem inattentive and uncaring. Coming to food, we expected more from a place like this. Food was palatable but nothing great. Wine, regular or flamboyant is on expensive end.
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Angel Apte
Zomato Aug 23, 2014
4.0
Had a fantastic time here the other night . The view from here is simple , fabulous , and the service prompt and impeccable . There is a good variety of wines available , to accompany the delicious food . The experience was really nice and made special by the wonderful staff .
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Harley Lowe
Zomato Aug 22, 2014
5.0
I only visited the bar here and hence, the review is exclusive to it. The view that you get from this view is incredible! The drinks here very delicious and extremely reasonably priced. We went here on a weekday after reading a lot of positive reviews and was not disappointed. The ambiance is very high end as well. The staff is very amicable and efficient. The good hygiene is also to be commended. Definitely recommended.
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HerFavFood
Zomato Aug 22, 2014
3.5
Despite being a restaurant located on the 31st floor of the tallest building in Europe, Aqua doesn't get full marks on the swank factor. Sadly, aside from the views of the London Skyline, Aqua itself looks more like a hotel lobby littered with lounge chairs shaded in greys and purples than a swanky restaurant.  <br/><br/>An unremarkable lift will drop diners off on the 32nd floor of the Shard, from which a fancy stairway overlooking the restaurant leads down into the atrium of Aqua. There is a large bar at the base of this atrium which occupies much of the floor whilst the smaller restaurant tables can be found on the west side.<br/><br/>Of course with a ‘vertical’ dining space like this, focus should be on the 360 degrees views rather than the restaurant decor itself, and with that in mind, dining at Aqua is still a special experience.<br/><br/>Would I Want Seconds?<br/><br/>Aqua have a host of different menus on offer. These range from Brunch and Afternoon Tea, to a Set Menu for Lunch and Dinner A La Carte Menu.<br/><br/>The cuisine is contemporary British and there is a range of dishes on the menu too. For example, the Dinner A La Carte menu is separated into dishes ‘From the Sea’, ‘From the Land’ and ‘From the Market Garden’. We ordered from the Set Lunch Menu, which offered a good selection of intriguing dishes (4 per course).<br/>However, as a result of the extensive menu, Aqua seems to be lacking in specialties and seems to offer a selection of all instead.<br/><br/>Could I Afford Seconds?<br/><br/>We choose to order from the Set Market Lunch Menu, mainly because it seemed much more reasonable than the A La Carte options. In addition there was a good selection of choices in each course. This costs £25.50 for 2 courses or £29.50 for 3 courses. In comparison, main courses on the A La Carte Menu can go from £20 - £40 for one dish.<br/><br/>The Afternoon Tea here costs £34.50 whilst the Champagne Afternoon Tea is £45. This matches the hiked up A La Carte prices which emphasis how much a good view can cost in Central London.<br/><br/>Overall: <br/><br/>Despite the price tag and the haughtiness of the staff, it seems that dining at the Shard has become a must do experience. Given the location, views and kudos that comes with checking into the Shard on Facebook, Aqua was always guaranteed a steady flow of custom no matter what they served.<br/><br/>However, if you are tempted by sky high dining as I was, I would recommend having a look at one of the other restaurants which have opened up in the Shard too. Next time I take a trip to the Shard, I may try Hutong instead, which is famed for its food and classy decor.<br/><br/>Oh and for the guys out there, don’t miss a trip to the loo, which comes with its own sensational views. Sadly they are not as expansive in the Ladies!
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Toby Barrett
Zomato Aug 21, 2014
5.0
If you are planning to visit this place then make sure you book a table days prior to your visit. This place is usually packed and loaded and hence it would not be a really good option to be here without a booking. The food is delicious, the decor is exquisite, the ambiance is very cheerful and the staff happens to be really cooperative. They possess amazing desserts and brilliant menu. Recommended.
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Alfie Reynolds
Zomato Aug 19, 2014
4.0
You must visit this place for the amazing views of London, the delicious food and the great range of wines that it has to offer. Come Autumn or Spring and this place is bustling with people. You can go for a business lunch or just hang out with friends. Just remember that the place can burn a hole in your pocket!
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Poppy Evans
Zomato Aug 13, 2014
4.0
The place offers a spectacular view of the city. The location is great and so is the ambiance and atmosphere here. The place is very well-decorated and mirrors give an illusion of the place being more spacious. Prior booking is recommended as the place is usually full, but in spite of this the service is not rushed. The food is delicious but is overpriced. Overall, it was a good experience and I would recommend it.
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Theo Hart
Zomato Aug 12, 2014
2.0
This place was a big disappointment owing to the fact that, the quality of the restaurant is absolutely below standard. The service was pretty pathetic and even after an hour of our reservation ,we were not seated.The places was also very unclean, which our water glasses smelling like stale food items.<br/>The food also was below average. This place gets that one star only for the view of the city but other than that, i know for sure i won't return.
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Gabriel Townsend
Zomato Aug 11, 2014
4.0
This place has an extraordinary view to offer and it is the perfect spot to be during sunset. The menu gives an extensive range of items which changes frequently, and most of the dishes they serve are brilliantly prepared and taste amazing. <br/>The service is attentive as well and most of the servers are pretty friendly. I would love to visit this place again in the near future and would recommend this place to everyone.
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Krishna Devi
Zomato Aug 08, 2014
4.0
The bar does not accept any reservations so we decided to sit at a table next to the window. The view here is spectacular and forms a huge part of the whole experience that you will have at this place. The cocktails are quite expensive for the quality offered, though they are quite delicious. The staff was very helpful and knowledgeable as well along with being quite friendly, though a little slow. Definitely recommended.
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Arka Divan
Zomato Aug 08, 2014
3.5
I visited this place last night and had a pretty decent experience here. Even though it's not a Michelin Star level restaurant, the quality of food offered here is quite good justifying the prices at which it is offered. The atmosphere and decor of this place is wonderful and the view is just outstanding. We ordered the beef tartar, veel tongue and salmon for starters, each of which was a delicate combination of flavours and very delicious. In the main course, we opted for steak, wood pigeon and lamb which were a disappointment but anyhow the prices were not steep, so we were fine with it. Overall the experience was pleasurable and good.
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Ethan Hutchinson
Zomato Aug 07, 2014
4.0
This place charges its customers for the superb view from the top. The server serving to us was also new to the place and had a little idea about the menu. I would call this place value for money because the same drinks can be tasted from an adjacent bar at a much lower price. Can miss visiting this place!
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Lucas Lynch
Zomato Aug 06, 2014
4.0
This is a really good place to stop by for a drink or maybe two with your friends. The view from this place is mesmerizing. The service is a bit slow but it is also because this place is quite busy all the time. This place is quite expensive but all the other places are almost of the same range.
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Anish Ganesan
Zomato Aug 02, 2014
5.0
When I visited this place I wasn't really expecting too much because of the bad reviews that this place had been receiving. On the contrary the four of us who visited this place enjoyed our meal and also appreciated the service that was being offered to us. The view from the top was amazing and I must admit that I would not mind going to this place again.
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HerFavFood
Zomato Jul 30, 2014
4.5
Despite being a restaurant located on the 31st floor of the tallest building in Europe, Aqua doesn't get full marks on swank. Sadly, aside from the views of the London Skyline, Aqua itself looks more like a hotel lobby littered with lounge chairs shaded in greys and purples than a swanky restaurant. An unremarkable lift will drop diners off on the 32nd floor of the Shard, from which a  fancy stairway overlooking the restaurant leads down into the atrium of Aqua. There is a large bar at the base of this atrium which occupies much of the floor whilst the smaller restaurant tables can be found on the west side. Of course with a ‘vertical’ dining space like this, focus should be on the 360 degrees views rather than the restaurant decor itself, and with that in mind, dining at Aqua is still a special experience.
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Annie Hall
Zomato Jul 15, 2014
4.5
The Shard offers fantastic views over London town, even on a cloudy, dull January day, most notably the Gherkin and the Heron Tower, St Paul's Cathedral, and of course, Tower Bridge, which you can almost touch.
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Kaz In Jozi
Zomato Jul 04, 2014
3.5
What a dichotomy. Beautiful setting, great menu and good wine list. Had a business dinner in a private setting. Had one waiter for 30 people across 3 tables. Food took forever. Despite 7pm sit down, dessert eventually only served at 10.30.<br/>Tables eventually took wine and water pouring into their own hands.<br/>Pasta main which was cold and tortellini could not be any thicker and chewier. Bit of a let down.
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A Roscoe
Zomato Jun 25, 2014
0.0
Running the risk and proceeding up in the lift to the Aqua Shard bar I saw, for the first time in fifteen or so years, the full-up-and-down sneer in action as we approached the doorman. Even now the exaggerated head flick as he eyed us all suspiciously makes me both chortle with amusement and bubble with indignation.
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Lrt637
Zomato May 30, 2014
0.0
GO FOR THE VIEW, LEAVE FOR THE SERVICE.... Went to Aqua Shard for a special occasion (29/05/14) and had a rather disappointing experience! <br/><br/>The views from the restaurant was fantastic, but apart from that everything else was far from what I had hoped to expect. The two main failings of Aqua Shard are 1) the service and 2) quality/value of the food. <br/><br/>1) I visited the restaurant and found the staff to be quite rude, inattentive and lacking in knowledge for what should be a fine dining experience. I could have negated some of their behaviour had it been busy, but we were seated early on during dinner service and there were only a handful of other diners in the restaurant during this time. The waiters and waitresses seemed more interested in each other than in service and overall the experience was lacking in a personal touch to service we have enjoyed elsewhere. It really was the main failing in our opinion. <br/><br/>2) The quality to value ratio of the food was not quite as good as I had expected it to be. By this I mean I don't mind paying good money for fantastic food and service, but the food at Aqua Shard was just a bit disappointing. Just a bit of a let down and about a 1/3 more expensive than it should be. <br/><br/>Overall, my recommendation would be go for a one-off drink to take in the view on a clear day, but save your money and go to a restaurant where you pay the same amount for some really great food and fab service!
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Happyeverafterbride
Zomato May 27, 2014
0.0
This place is rather fancy, and boasts a fabulous view of London’s skyline. If you arrive early for your dinner reservation, they might even lead you into Hutong’s bar for a cocktail to mix things up a little so that you don’t get sick of having the same view. I quite enjoy bars with a view and this one is spectacular. The food is priced as high as the building looms between £25 to £35 for a main, and the plates are de
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Sagar Chahal
Zomato May 17, 2014
4.0
So I went for a business dinner to this place located above the Shangri la.<br/>A supersonic elevator takes you to the 32nd floor at the rate of knots.And it almost becomes a free fall once you come down.<br/>(For the first time in my life in an escalator I experienced the Air pressure buliding in my ears like that of any aircraft.)<br/>The view was Speechless. The London tower on one side.The London Eye on the Other.<br/>Amazing service.<br/>Veuve Cliquot was what we raised the toast with.<br/>The place was buzzing even on a wednesday.<br/>But the food was mediocre.Rissotto was not cooked properly.the desserts werent too tempting.<br/>But still a must place to Visit.<br/>P▪S▪ In terms of the amazing view. I would still rate the OXO above it.
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LunchinKB
Zomato May 15, 2014
0.0
he doors open and as I exit the elevator my doubt percipitates. Within moments I am seated in a comfortable but low chair and gasp along with my family at the magnificent view. It really is a great view. The best in London. With clear sight to the Eye, Big Ben, st Paul's and even the warf.
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Samit Kotadia
Zomato Apr 22, 2014
3.0
Views are amazing and the breakfast was very good however upon being seated our seats were very dirty and we had to clean them our selves with tissue. Great place but a little more attention to detail by the staff!
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We Love Food, It's All We Eat
Zomato Apr 11, 2014
4.5
Sometimes it’s nice to go and have a proper grown-up meal. After two nights on the trot of satisfying our ‘dude food’ cravings, we sat down for something a little more refined.<br/><br/>We didn’t give Aqua Shard much of a chance, they had only opened the day before. But we knew a group like this would have things sorted out from day one and it was an invitation too good to miss. We loved the Spanish Aqua Nueva off Regents Street and the Shard branch offers suitably appropriate British fare, but of course with that Aqua twist. The menu has been devised by owner David Yeo and executive chef Anthony Garlando (protégé of master chef Pierre Gagnaire) and is inspired by the British Isles, but with a French influence.<br/><br/>Things started off well with the magical slimming mirrors in the Shard lifts, if only the mirrors surrounding us in the restaurant were quite so forgiving. I had to squint every time I turned around, no one wants to watch themselves eating, do they?<br/><br/>For the full review and more pictures go to http://welovefood-itsallweeat.com/2013/07/09/on-top-of-the-world-aqua-shard-level-31-the-shard-joiner-street-london-se1-9sp/
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SamTheFoodFan
Zomato Jan 29, 2014
0.0
It was The Better Half's (TBH) birthday on Sunday and I wanted to take him somewhere special. What could be more special than 31 floors up, with a view spanning 360 degrees across the London skyline? Aqua Shard is one of three restaurants located in the tallest building in Europe, serving modern British food. Zooming up to the 32nd floor, the lift opens up into quite a plain lobby area but once we descended the staircase to the 31st floor we found ourselves in a very sleek and sexy restaurant.
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Chris Osburn
Zomato Jan 21, 2014
4.0
Yes of course, the view is the main draw at Aqua Shard, but don’t let that get in the way of enjoying the food and stylish setting. I recently had breakfast there and left feeling nearly as pleased with my full English as I was with this upscale restaurant’s full-on vistas. For a (high) rise ‘n shine that towers over the competition, the newly introduced breakfast menu at Aqua Shard is tops.<br/><br/>Usually – and even if I’ve thoroughly enjoyed a dining experience – I’m keen to get going after a meal … to carry on to the next venue, walk off some excess calories, head home and change into my jammies, whatever … just move! After my satisfying brekkie at Aqua Shard on Saturday though, I wanted to linger – to have another cup of coffee and simply ‘take it all in’ for a little while longer. To be honest, I felt like that the minute I stepped into Aqua Shard.<br/><br/>So I did, and sitting there sipping my second Americano while scoping the London landscape from The Shard’s 31st floor, I felt satisfied indeed. I’d had a fantastic “Shard Breakfast” of two Old House Farm eggs (I had mine poached), Staffordshire dry-cured streaky bacon, Cumberland sausage, spinach, Bermondsey salted ricotta, vine tomatoes, grilled mushrooms, smoked ham hock cannellini beans, hash browns, black pudding and sourdough toasted. Whew, a morning meal as epic as my view! Everything was tasty, I particularly liked the bacon, beans and hash browns. Priced at £14.50 it was a bit on the dear end of the spectrum, but I thought it was very good value for money, especially considering the novel setting.<br/><br/>I had the pleasure of enjoying my breakfast with Kemey who went with the lobster Benedict (Colchester Blue lobster, two poached eggs, toasted English muffins and Hollandaise, £18). She was kind enough to let me have a bite. It was delicious. I’d go back for that lobster dish again though the tattie scones and kedgeree were mighty appealing menu listings also. Of course, there are lunch and twinkly-lit and lofty dinners (and maybe even the prospect of afternoon tea in the near future) to consider too … not to mention The Shard’s other two restaurants (Hutong and Oblix) to check out.<br/><br/>Meals with magnificent views aside, Aqua Shard is a gorgeous place. It’s difficult to not gaze out the windows while there but if you can manage, you’ll see attractive fittings and interiors that’d have me giving a thumbs up even if it had been a basement bar. Seating was comfy too, and just walking across the dining area felt grandious.<br/><br/>Our server was an absolute – and super friendly – pro. Dishes were served promptly and without fuss.<br/><br/>Impress a client, treat that special someone, show off your beloved city to your out-of-towner guests: this is the place to do it, and breakfast is as good a time as any.
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Hollowlegs
Zomato Jan 03, 2014
0.0
Tattie scones with black pudding was a belt-buster of a dish - poached eggs came atop a slice of toast, and the smoked Manx kippers were actually within the scones itself, rather than served with it. If I'm honest it was my least favourite; the black pudding a bit too abundant, the tattie scones a touch greasy. I've never been a great lover of black pudding, though.
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Chris
Zomato Jan 03, 2014
3.5
Seriously impressive venue, great views and opulent surroundings. Food was good but service was lacking, waiting staff were unrehearsed and disorganised. Happy with our visit, but could have been better.
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Laura Fitzpatrick
Zomato Dec 31, 2013
0.0
First off I have to say that I found the service a little baffling, we were kept waiting for half an hour as they were over booked, when I asked how much longer we would be waiting, we were whisked off to a quiet area of the restaurant (where there were several other free tables for the duration of our stay) and given a bottle of champagne which was subsequently taken away. They were all over the place.
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Andy Glover
Zomato Dec 01, 2013
3.0
Immediately feels special when you get in the dedicated lift ! Views are amazing as you'd expect. Night time views stunning with cocktails. Food a bit average. The gents loo offers a very unique experience, you know what I mean if you've been !!
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L Wilkinson
Zomato Nov 25, 2013
0.0
Aqua has every imaginable box ticked in the bar area so much so that I would definitely go back for cocktails, wow-factor and the great atmosphere.
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David Williams
Zomato Oct 16, 2013
3.5
Great views of London might distract from the food...the dropped plates and smashed glasses, but even after all that I think it will be a while before returning.all the staff were very friendly and overall I'm sure it will be very popular with the tourists but it was lacking the finesse of say the oxo tower or galvin windows.but will definitely come back to the shard to try one of the other restaurants
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J Smith
Zomato Sep 26, 2013
4.0
Getting there: exit Borough High Street exit of London Bridge, walk up to the Shard and entrance is next to the Shangri-La. <br/>Service: Very smiley and pleasant service, from the many sets of greeters to the wait staff. <br/>Food: Overall excellent. Veal and octopus and mackerel for starters, the veal was quite a rich but acquired taste, and the flavour combination worked well, lots on the plate; fish starter was very very fresh, again with interesting sauce, cooked almost raw. Pigeon (medium) and lobster for mains; pigeon was gorgeous, succulent with yummy blueberry sauce, lobster good but seemed a little dry. Overall lots of flavour combos going on and a running theme of mint. <br/>Dessert: Millie-fueille was delicious, light and creamy and David's mess also yummy, excellent espresso. <br/>Wine: Cabernet-Sauvignon, was very nice.<br/>Ambience: large three story atrium space makes for wonderful booming acoustics for the piped jazz mixed with the sound of lively conversation. Lots of space around the table so that you feel like you're on you're own. Decor and lighting is dark and understated, all the better to see the amazing view. <br/>Price: £140 for two. (With only two glasses of wine)
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London Girl
Zomato Sep 24, 2013
0.0
Fantastic view and setting, ok food and nice wait staff but let down by rude and arrogant management. Shame
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HungryBee Maija
Zomato Sep 24, 2013
0.0
Aqua Shard is the third restaurant that has opened in the Shard, the tallest building in London and Europe, after Oblix and Hutong, and in my view is the worst one out of these three. Aqua Shard is the sister restaurant to Aqua Nueva and Aqua Kyoto, a Spanish and Japanese restaurants located on the top floor of a building by Oxford Circus and run by the Hong Kong group Aqua. In contrast to the other Aqua restaurants, Aqua Shard serves “innovative contemporary British cuisine”. I went to Aqua Shard for lunch with my friend Arjun and I had a table booked for 12.15. Aqua Shard is located next to the bar in the Shard. I actually really liked the décor in Aqua Shard and thought it was better than the décor in Oblix (Hutong is very different, Chinese style, so hard to compare) with purple chairs, and what I also very much liked was that the tables for 2 were lo
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The Food Judge
Zomato Sep 18, 2013
0.0
Love it or hate it, you can’t ignore it. I’d wanted to go to the Shard before now but a combination of laziness and resentment about having to pay silly sums to Mr Sellar to see it had put me off. And on the day, I was worried about not being able to find it. I know. Ridiculous. But I thought I might do that thing, you know, where you sort of know where a place is, or you think you do and then you take a wrong turning or get off at the wrong stop and then you start to hyperventilate because you’re late. So I got a taxi from Bank. And it took me to the front. This is at the back. So I still got it wrong. And I didn’t want to be late because I was meeting C, an important editor – well known to lawyers everywhere. And I don’t want you to confuse her with the C who makes a regular appearance in these pages. You know the one, the C who doesn’t share his food. The C who sometimes has the face . The C I’m married to. C the husband doesn’t really
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Christine
Zomato Sep 01, 2013
0.0
Aqua Shard  was beautifully decked out in exactly the kind of thirty-something-storey way you'd expect, with the restaurant and seating oriented towards the views out the window. Fabulous in theory, astronomically hot and squinty when faced with a glorious sunset.
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Michelle
Zomato Aug 10, 2013
4.5
Exceptional Desserts - especially (believe it or not) the rice pudding!. I had the pleasure of dining at Aqua Shard last night with two friends. <br/><br/>This restaurant isn't Michelin Star level but it is good quality food considering the price point, as well as the experience - atmosphere, décor and - hello - check out that view!<br/><br/>We had the beef tartar, veal tongue and salmon for starters, each of which was very good and a delicate combination of flavours.<br/><br/>The mains, steak, wood pigeon and lamb were disappointing (however we didn't feel that they were overpriced). The marmalade and caramelised onions which accompanied the pigeon and steak were excellent.<br/><br/>The desserts were exceptional, another level. It's very difficult to find restaurants which pay such attention to detail when it comes to dessert. The British know good puddings and Aqua Shard nailed it.<br/><br/>We absolutely loved the blackberry cheesecake and the apricot rice pudding, which we shared.<br/><br/>When would you ever say that rice pudding was the best dish of a meal?<br/><br/>It's true - light flavours, very creamy, with just the right amount of vanilla. The cheesecake was a very close second, with a crisp biscuit base and delicious deep topping. We loved both the textures and flavours of each dish, a true delight!<br/><br/>Over all courses, we cannot fault the attention to detail in presentation, food arrived promptly and hot, and the staff were attentive and polite.<br/><br/>We personally thanked the pastry chef who came out to speak with us, it added a very nice touch to the meal.<br/><br/>I'm looking forward to going back to try the fish as a main instead.
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Cocktailsandcaroline
Zomato Aug 07, 2013
0.0
Overall, a really lovely experience at Aqua Shard. Okay, I probably did prefer Duck & Waffle for food, value and service but there's not really a lot in it. Both are a great choice for a special occasion.<br/>
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FoodiesontheProwl
Zomato Jul 15, 2013
4.5
Aqua Shard is one of 3 restaurants to recently open their doors in London’s most iconic high-rise building, the Shard. We’ve tried Oblix (one of the other 2 restaurants) and were disappointed, but were very pleasantly surprised with Aqua Shard (we will try Hutong, the 3rd restaurant, in a few weeks). Aqua Shard is much more than a restaurant with a good view, it’s a restaurant with very good food.   Green pea custard and foie gras (9/10) Green pea custard and foie gras (9/10) Summer fruit (8/10)   As you would expect, the views of London from the 32nd floor of the Shard are impressive. The cocktail lounge at Aqua Shard is a perfect location to impress someone and the interior of the the whole place is tasteful and sleek. Heritage carrots salad (9/10) Heritage carrots salad (9/10) Heritage carrots salad (9/10)   When we visited Aqua Shard we tried the following dishes: Green pea custard and foie gras (9/10) Summer fruit (8/10) Heritage carrots salad (9/10)  Pork belly (8.5/10) Diver sca
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Samphire And Salsify
Zomato Jul 08, 2013
0.0
Aqua own two restaurants inside the Shard; Hutong a Northern Chinese inspired restaurant on the 33rd floor and Aqua Shard which serves contemporary British food on the 31st. I was super excited to be invited to a preview night at the latter, along with my gentleman companion. We started with drinks in the bar and lounge area which is a rather beautiful space. Not only are you faced with a breathtaking view but due to the windows being three floors high you get a view like no other in London, I would have gladly stayed there sipping cocktails all night. The dining room is just as pretty (with smaller windows however) and luckily for us, the tables for two are right up against the window so you get more of that amazing view. I decided to start with the hand cut County Rose beef tartare with spicy mayonnaise, Bloody Mary jelly and “Shard scotch egg” (£13.50). The raw beef was soft and full of flavour and the spicy mayonnaise packed quite a punch. The Shard scotch egg contained prawn inste
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The Sociable Chatterbox
Zomato Jul 06, 2013
4.5
From 32nd Floor you are led to a glass stairway that leads you to the 31st Floor which is where Aqua Shard is located. People this is as good as it gets when it comes to dramatic entrances, I felt like I was stepping into a sublime new world and escaping from the real one