Heist Bank in Paddington launch

Slightly hidden among a crescent of business buildings a new hang-out place opens called Heist Bank. It is run by the people behind the Coin Laundry in Clerkenwell and brings the same relaxed and nostalgic atmosphere to Paddington.

A stylish and slightly retro interior welcomes customers right away. The furniture is somewhat mismatched yet trendy and little trinkets all around the bar and dining area make the place special: a rip-off drinks menu, an old football table, a florist in residence and quirky wall art give off a homely feel. Heist Bank is both bar and all-day-dining restaurant that specialises in pizza. An open kitchen even allows the visitor to watch the chefs from some parts of the venue.

The menu is not too extensive: breakfast is served between 8am and 11.30am, offering classics such as Eggs on Toast  or a Smoked Bacon Sandwich and more adventurous options such as Smoked Sausage, Potato Rosti, Crispy Duck Egg and Onion Ketchup. The all-day menu similarly offers a diverse variety of large dishes such as chicken, pork loin and hanger steak, as well as smaller plates and a range of vegetarian options. The main event however is the pizza. The Lamb, Preserved Lemon, Blockley Feta and Wild Rocket Pizza is nice, as is the Smoked Sausage, Hips Cabbage, Chilli and Smoked Mozzarella option. The Three Mushroom, Burnt Butter White Sauce and Tarragon unfortunately less so, as the mushrooms have an almost overwhelming taste of vinegar and have been added as the dough is already baked. The same dilemma with the Smashed Peas, Courgettes, Rosary Goats Cheese and Mint Pizza, which is almost cold due to the fact that the warm base has been smothered with the chilled ingredients.

While the dishes are all visually impressive, the taste experience cannot keep up and is slightly disappointing, as the special ingredients used do not meet their potential. A highlight,  however, is the drinks menu, which will make every beer-lover rejoice. A rotating on-tap system makes sure that upon every visit there will be a new beer to try, but also the bottled collection serves about 20 different brands from around the world. There is a good selection of wine and cocktails, of which the Scofflaw – Evan Williams Bourbon, Dry Vermouth, Lemon and Pomegranate Syrup – is particularly recommendable and will ensure a jolly night out.

Luisa Kapp
Photos: Filippo L’Astorina

For furhter information or to book a table at Heist Bar, 5 North Wharf Road Paddington W2 1LA London, enquire here.