SquareMeal Review of 108 Brasserie & Bar

108 Brasserie & Bar is a charming restaurant bar situated on the corner of Welbeck and Bulstrode Street in Marylebone, inside The Doyle Collection’s rather magnificent hotel, The Marylebone. With alluring decor that draws inspiration from the seasons, it has instant appeal for social gatherings and date nights. A smart parquet floor stretches out before us, into a regal room of cool blues, maroon leather, potted palms and gently draped tablecloths. Traditional but still chic, 108 Brasserie & Bar has a good spot for every occasion, including a tranquil outdoor terrace.

The menu at 108 Brasserie & Bar sways towards accessible modern European cooking, with plenty of familiar, likeable dishes to set expectations high. Whilst the welcome was friendly, the wait time between orders was sometimes lengthy.

Much of the food at 108 Brasserie & Bar matches the stylish vibe of the interiors. Exquisite Jersey Rock oysters with shallot mignonette, tabasco and lemon were a perfect way to start - nicely presented and excellent quality. We found the crispy tiger prawns with spicy cocktail sauce enjoyable too - the batter was light and crisp, though £17.50 is a steep price to pay. Another pair of starters - white crab with toasted soda bread, watercress and apple, and beef tartare with quail egg - were solidly executed. Again, though, there were a few inconsistencies in the cooking. A piece of fillet steak, for example, arrived well done, despite our request for medium rare.

On the drinks front, bar staff mix up some lovely signature cocktails. Beautiful Touch, for example, takes a gin base and livens things up with pomegranate juice, honey, lime juice and tonic - a gently-effervescent, fruity take on a classic G&T, perfect to enjoy on the terrace. 108 Brasserie & Bar is a beautiful space, ideal for grazing, casual meet-ups and drinks parties, and if you’re looking for private dining in Marylebone, 108 Brasserie has rooms available for groups too.