Restaurant of the Month: Faber.
“Fresh fish caught and served daily” is the culinary philosophy at Faber, an unexpected and enchanting sanctuary for seafood aficionados nestled in the heart of west London. Faber is meticulously crafted using only the finest, freshest ingredients, culminating in wholesome, innovative dishes that promise guests an unforgettable gastronomic voyage.
Before delving into the culinary delights, it must be acknowledged that Faber is an aesthetically pleasing restaurant, an unanticipated oasis featuring pale banquettes, blond-wood flooring, and subdued lighting right in the bustling centre of Hammersmith. The ambiance is both intimate and inviting, instantly putting patrons at ease with its warm atmosphere and welcoming staff.
As a contemporary farm-to-fork establishment, Faber's menu is ever-evolving, dictated by the daily catch from their partner fishing fleets. Fortuitously, Rock oysters were available on the evening of our visit, prompting us to order a splendid platter accompanied by the traditional raw mignonette sauce. Executive chef Ollie Bass's exceptional culinary expertise shines through in the grilled cod cheek skewers served with warm tartare sauce—succulent and meaty, they are a testament to his expertise. The sourdough with anchovy butter is a masterpiece of crusty perfection on the outside and delicious warmth on the inside, perfect for mopping up the creamy, oozy sauce from the lobster croquettes, another notable small dish on the menu.
From the larger offerings, we consulted the daily board and selected the Lemon Sole with garlic butter—a splendid fish dish that needs little more than the buttery smooth and creamy olive oil mash, accompanied by steamed chard with watercress puree and crispy shallots. This ensemble made for a harmonious and delectable plate.
Faber's prowess extends beyond fish dishes to an impressive repertoire of cocktails. The Plum Gin Spritz, infused with strawberries, plum, lemon syrup, and bramble bitters, fizzes and dances on the palate, providing a delightful start to the evening. From the wine list, the Bolney Estate Pinot Gris, with its notes of pear, white blossoms, and citrus, pairs wonderfully with the seafood offerings.
The dessert menu, though concise, delivers a powerful finale. We opt for the chocolate terrine with brandied figs and almond brittle—it’s rich, it’s decadent, and the perfect conclusion to a memorable evening. Faber might just be our new favorite seafood destination: sustainable, fresh, and utterly succulent. This charming establishment will undoubtedly have you hooked.
Reservations here: https://faberrestaurants.co.uk/