Boxcar Bar and Grill Review
DISCLOSURE -THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Dee Ryz
Boxcar Bar & Grill is part of the Boxcar Group, a collection of neighbourhood eateries and bakeries in London, known for their farm-to-table approach and high-quality seasonal ingredients.
Tucked away in Marylebone, just a short stroll from Marble Arch, Boxcar Bar & Grill is in a prime spot for an evening out. It’s easy to get to, with Marble Arch Underground Station only five minutes away, and the surrounding streets are filled with boutique shops and charming corners, perfect for a pre- or post-dinner wander.
Inside, the restaurant has a stylish yet relaxed feel. The warm lighting and candle-lit tables create a cosy atmosphere, making it equally suited for casual dining or a special occasion. The space is thoughtfully laid out over two floors, and in the warmer months, there’s outdoor seating for a touch of al fresco dining.
For Valentine’s Day, Boxcar Bar & Grill presented a special three-course set menu at £49 per person, including a welcome cocktail, a choice of starter and main, and a shared dessert (https://boxcar.co.uk/valentines-day/).
We kicked things off with the ‘Velvet Bloom’ welcome cocktail, a delightful blend of vodka, mulled spice liqueur, and lychee. Sparkly and fruity, it was a refreshing start to the meal.
For starters, we chose the toasted brown loaf with whipped confit garlic and chive butter, alongside the crispy monkfish with preserved lemon and herb salsa. While the bread was warm and fresh, it felt more like an accompaniment rather than a starter and the golden globules of confit garlic I had hoped to find the butter itself weren’t there. The monkfish had a nice crispy coating, but there was more batter than fish, and it could have been hotter – it had all the makings of something great but just missed the mark.
The mains had some solid flavours. The pan-roasted cod with monk’s beard and Brixham crab bisque looked the part, though the fish was slightly overcooked, and the skin was soggy rather than crispy. That said, the bisque was rich and full of depth, helping to elevate the dish. The lamb shank shepherd’s pie was hearty and comforting, and the red wine jus added a luxurious touch.
We also indulged in some sides. The rosemary salted fries were crispy, golden, and well-seasoned, and the heritage tomatoes brought a touch of vibrancy. The braised red cabbage had a spiced warmth that had a slightly festive feel.
Our favourite course was dessert. The chocolate fondant arrived piping hot, its molten centre rich and indulgent. Paired with creamy ice cream, it was luxurious and well-balanced – a fabulous end to the meal.
Overall, the Valentine’s offer felt well-balanced, given the central London location and the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients, and if you’re considering gifting a meal at Boxcar – whether for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just as a treat – it’s a good choice. With its cosy yet modern vibe and focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, Boxcar Bar & Grill has a lot to offer (and that Valentine’s dessert alone is worth coming back for!).
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
For more information, to view the menu or make a booking, visit boxcar.co.uk.
Boxcar Bar & Grill, 23 New Quebec St, Marylebone, London, W1H 7SD | info@boxcar.co.uk | 020 3006 7000