Allegra

A decade on from London 2012 and the revitalisation of Stratford, and Stratford remains... well, slightly more vital than it was. One suspects that the folks at Allegra were hoping that Stratford might have become more of a destination by now. We have this thought whilst admiring the stylish bathrooms, which boast lovely high-rise views over derelict-looking building sites.

Still, that’s no reflection on Allegra itself, which brings Central London chicness out to the city’s far east reaches. Space Copenhagen have done a beautiful job of the interiors, mixing different stone patterns and textures across surfaces, from the smooth stone of the bar to the natural stone floors. Windows surround the restaurant, which follows the extended horseshoe of the central bar - as a result, it feels bright and spacious, whilst vertical blinds give some diffused sun protection on brighter days.

We kick off with a couple of cocktails, including an excellent Apple Hazelnut number, which balanced whisky and Frangelico with the sharp acidity of Granny Smith apple. Like everything at Allegra, it speaks to real thoughtfulness behind the whole operation.

On Wednesdays Allegra offers a tasting menu - perfect for those who prefer to skip the decision-making and get down to business. Combining such a wide spectrum of influences can sometimes lead to dishes that get mired in ideas, but Powell’s food here is crystal clear. A tomato tarte fine with artichoke barigoule is absolutely cracking - deep, roasted tomatoes on a pastry base, with the barigoule blended into a smooth puree; the definition of classic flavours elevated. The main event is a perfect slow-cooked beef cheek that melts away as we tear into it with forks, served with soft, burnished leaves of grilled cabbage. There’s clearly a talented pastry kitchen too, and £52 all in for dinner is an absolute bargain.

Admittedly there were a few timing issues on the night, with later courses coming rather slowly - the sort of thing that happens to any good kitchen from time to time. That only slightly detracts from the quality of the food, and the slick, friendly service managed to bridge the gap. If Allegra were in Central London, it would be the toast of the town.

Head up to the seventh floor of Manhattan Loft Gardens - a mere stone’s throw from Stratford International Station and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park - and you'll find Allegra, Patrick Powell's chic modern European restaurant. Powell boasts a rock solid pedigree - he was previously head chef at Chiltern Firehouse for a number of years under Nuno Mendes, and has also spent time with Anthony Demetre at Wild Honey.

The striking interiors are designed by Space Copenhagen - the company behind the interiors at iconic Copenhagen restaurants like Geranium, Noma and 108. An open kitchen sits behind a sweeping stone bar, which bends around the restaurant. As you enter, you'll also find a neat little sun terrace on the right hand side, where you can sit and enjoy snacks and signature cocktails like the Apple Hazelnut, made with whisky, Frangelico, Granny Smith apple and cider.

Powell's contemporary European cooking takes inspiration from far and wide, though many of the dishes are rooted in classic flavours. Starters on the a la carte include a dish of hand-dived scallop, Vesuvius tomato, leche de tigre, cucumber and sea vegetables, with main plates including roast saddle of lamb with tomato tarte fine, lamb faggot, olive and artichoke, and barbecued pollock, Vadouvan spices, potato, spring onion and curry leaf. For those that would rather just sit down and eat, there's a chef's selection available, and a tasting menu available on a Wednesday evening too. Don't forget the desserts, which are worth saving room for - try the apricot baba, lemon thyme chantilly or English strawberry and elderflower tart.

On top of the signature cocktails, Allegra also boasts an extensive wine list as well as knowledgeable sommelier service.