The Square Mile is fuelled by steak but this newcomer has a warmth and homeliness often absent from the City’s more corporate-focused steakhouses. This has less to do with the standard-issue masculine, moody interior – think dark wood tables and deep red leather banquettes – and a lot to do with the incredibly friendly staff. The restaurant is run by a team of three brothers who’ll greet you like an old friend and perhaps even take shots with you at the end of your meal.
Free-range prime Argentinian beef arrives from a central charcoal grill as marbled, smoky ribeye and lean and tender rump, among other cuts. Pep up your steak with sauces such as béarnaise or chimichurri and add sides such as sweet potato fries and mac ‘n’ cheese. It’s not all about the steaks though, with other options including chicken escalope with salsa and cheese, slow-cooked short ribs and a peppering of veggie and vegan dishes such as grilled aubergine with brown miso, couscous, chilli and spinach.
Fiendishly sugary desserts include Nutella-stuffed crêpes topped with vanilla ice cream and heavenly dulce de leche, while the Argentinean-focused wine list has a good showing of Malbec. There’s a G&T menu too, featuring 16 different kinds of gin.
Reasonable pricing, a buzzy atmosphere and a handy location just a few minutes’ walk from Liverpool Street make Bife a worthy City pit stop for a steak, and is a restaurant where you’ll truly feel welcomed, whether you’re suited and booted or not.