Sackville’s, Mayfair, opened on 16th July and isn’t quite known yet. And I don’t really understand why! I was welcomed to attend for a review recently, and the top line notes are that the food was great, cocktails delicious, the staff personable and I’ll certainly be back for a non-review experience first chance I get.

Sackville’s prides itself on its quality beef and use of black truffles (aka: the expensive ones). The decore is art deco New York with a modern touch, and the atmosphere is set with the Instagrammable neon at the doorway – accept the mystery.

We had a reservation for 2pm on a Saturday afternoon (I asked if we could come for a lunchtime visit, and if it would be possible to sit at a table by a window to make the most of the natural lighting for my pictures), and when we arrived early we were welcomed by name, which was a lovely touch. While another group of diners finished up their lunch at the table by the window, we were offered a cosy booth at the back and a cool beverage while we read through the menu.

A few minutes later we were able to head over to the table by the window, where our server brought our cocktails. I enjoyed the Pink Cashmere, a fantastically light gin cocktail that was easy to drink, while Jeff chose the Steampunk, a refreshing non-alcoholic lemonade and fennel beverage.

While we waited for our starter we people watched. There weren’t many people in the restaurant at this time, but there was one large party there for a birthday celebration. They had a few small children with them, and I loved how the servers brought over several black truffles for them to smell, and also a few bite-sized samples to give them a bit of a taste for what to expect. I really loved that personal touch, and that they welcomed the children in the upscale environment in a way that made everyone feel at ease.

Four our starter we shared the Carpaccio, USDA fillet hand cut in house with parmesan and truffle oil. It may look like a small portion, but it is filling and oh so tasty! I was contemplating scooping the truffle oil with the spoon to continue enjoying its deliciousness when it was time for our main. I ordred the Waygu rump steak medium rare with a side of truffle fries and truffle mayonnaise to dip. Jeff ordered the short rib, which the manager let us know was his favourite dish. The short rib was slow cook, carmalised on the outside and tender on the inside. I would happily recommend either dish, because they were both excellent.

And while I was offered a complementary dessert, I sadly had to decline as I was simply stuffed full! As we were leaving I felt a twinge of sadness that I hadn’t been able to continue eating to enjoy a homemade truffled brie or chocolate fondant burger, but I ended up staying full throughout the evening so I’m glad I didn’t force myself to feel uncomfortable fully. Looks like I’ll just have to come back another time and save room for dessert…

• Carpaccio – £12
• Short rib – £28
• Waygu rump steak – £36
• Truffle fries – £6
• Truffle mayonnaise – £4.50
• Pink Cashmere – £13
• Steampunk – £7.50

Please note: while my food was a gift from Sackville’s and Jeff’s was discounted, the views expressed are my own.