Judge & Jury

Ever wondered what it’s like to see the inside of a courtroom? While I’n not suggesting becoming a felon, you can get one step closer with a night at Shoreditch’s Courthouse Hotel’s recent opening.

Situated in the Old Magistrates’ Court and once housing infamous villains such as the Kray Twins, Judge & Jury is the new restaurant within the hotel and the Jailhouse Bar its partner in crime.

The new concept combines the setting of a historic courtrom with a contemporary British menu, featuring dishes like lime marinated scallops with heritage beets, rump of lamb with rosemary and mustard and several dishes from the grill. The Jailhouse Bar, where you can drink in one of the original cells, boasts a cocktail-led drinks menu features in-house infusions, tinctures and syrups, as well as great craft ales, a varied selection of wine and classic spirits and mixers. The Ball and Chain Cocktail – made from Sipsmith Sloe Gin, Cointreau, lemon juice and orange marmalade, with the “chain” being a shot of Prosecco - sounds set to become a favourite.

Dropping in recently to sample the new menu before opening to the public, I greatly enjoyed the Cornish crab croquettes with spicy pineapple salsa, rich and creamy with the salsa providing a great juxtaposed tang to the crab. The celeriac hummus, minted yoghurt and crispy cauliflower was tasty, though a little light on that punchy celeriac flavour.

The pan roasted duck breast & pressed confit leg came with celeriac puree, poached pear, truffle oil and a blue cheese and walnut crumble. A tasty combination, the duck was deliciously cooked, though the plate seemed to be lacking some kind of vegetable; I personally felt it needed a little something else to complete it. My date enjoyed a flaky, melt in the mouth piece of baked cod, served with lentils fricassee & wild mushrooms; there were certainly no complaints on the portion size - there were a LOT of lentils. Make sure to leave room for dessert - the whisky tart with vanilla ice cream is not to be missed.

In a part of town that’s rife with street food, burgers, pop ups and bistros as opposed to fine dining, Judge & Jury will surely be a welcome addition to the Shoreditch dining scene. If you’re looking for a dinner location with a difference, get it on your radar.