Located at the back of Kings Cross away from the crowds of Granary Square is Rotunda, situated in a Grade II-listed building overlooking Regent’s Canal, this is the perfect spot for alfresco drinks and fabulous food. I was invited down to experience their newly opened Tulum terrace bar that wraps around the edge of the restaurant featuring an abundance of greenery, walkways and photo opportunities, it oozes bohemian-chic vibes, transforming the waterside terrace into a tropical oasis.
The bar is lively and vibrant and serves up a range of classic and creative cocktails, with a focus on tequila and mezcal. The new summer cocktail menu will whisk you off to the beaches of Tulum. My favourite was the Rio Rosa with pink peppercorn and dill infused Rooster Rojo Tequila Blanco, lime juice, strawberry cordial, honey, pink grapefruit, and bergamot tonic. However the Las Bandidas with Mezcal Union Una, Frangelico, Antica Formula, St Germain Elderflower and lime was also delicious. The bar also offers an impressive selection of Mexican beers, wines, and spirits, as well as a range of appetising bar snacks and small plates, including tuna tartare tacos served with tequila, lime and pico de gallo salsa. The Sticky Corneyside Farm beef croquettes with habanero mayonnaise and lime are also to die for.
The focus here is on high-quality, locally sourced meat and seafood. While this year’s look, feel, and menus are all Mexican inspired, the food provenance remains wholeheartedly British. The quality of meat is exceptional, all the beef and lamb served are sourced from its own farm (Corneyside) in Northumberland, reflecting their gate-to-plate philosophy.
The menu features a range of delectable dishes, including grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and succulent Chimichurri spatchcock poussin. The highlight, however, is the chargrilled rump of Texel lamb with habanero, courgettes, and mint yoghurt, the meat was tender and the combination of habanero and mint yoghurt provided the perfect balance. My date ordered the Corneyside Farm beef brisket chilli con carne, which came with tortilla chips, guacamole and salsa, both hearty and flavourful it had just enough heat.
Rotunda is one of those places you want to keep to a secret, with stunning views and a stylish, modern interior I guarantee it will be your summer go-to for sundowners and a bite to eat.
There’s a planned programme of Mexican-inspired events across the summer from tequila tastings to terrarium workshops.
Upcoming events:
- Starting in May – Saturday morning brunch and yoga with The Fore gym
- Thursday 11th May – Margarita masterclass
- Monday 10th July – Pina Colada masterclass
- Monday 24th July- Tequila and taco tasting in honour of world tequila day
- Saturday 3rd June – Brunch and terrarium workshop with Botanical Boys
For more information visit the website.