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Cinder - St John's WoodB+Worth Trying
5 St John's Wood High St, London NW8 7NG
· Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (193 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Creative grill-led neighborhood spot delivering standout salmon, lamb, and triple-cooked potatoes with occasionally uneven service and premium pricing.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Cinder delivers exceptional food quality anchored by signature cedar plank salmon and triple-cooked potatoes that earn repeated praise, but inconsistent execution and variable service attentiveness prevent it from reaching grade A territory. The stylish setting with kitchen counter seating and terrace appeal makes it a solid neighborhood favorite, though service rigidity and modest portions for premium pricing temper the overall experience. Worth visiting for the grill-forward Mediterranean cooking, but expect occasional unevenness.
Restaurant Summary
Cinder feels like a polished neighborhood spot where the grill takes center stage and plates carry bright, smoky accents. The room is stylish and relaxed, with a front-row kitchen counter for those who enjoy the show. One diner summed it up neatly: "Service was warm and the salmon had that campfire aroma in the best way." Do expect a lively mood on prime nights, though the vibe stays comfortably conversational for many. Pricing sits on the premium side for the area, and a few guests reported time limits and bill quirks, but most experiences describe well-paced, welcoming service. The culinary approach leans creative grill with Mediterranean and Asian flourishes: miso-laced raw plates, Sichuan-kissed steak, zhoug and harissa meet char and smoke. Signature hits include the cedar plank salmon, lamb, and the now-iconic triple-cooked potatoes with black lime salt. It is a menu for diners who enjoy layered flavors more than heavy sauces, with a raw section and several gluten-free and vegetarian choices; vegans will find fewer main options but can build a satisfying spread from small plates and sides. Families can make this work with chicken thighs and potatoes for simpler palates, though there is no dedicated kids menu and some sauces skew spicy or pickled. If your crew prefers very plain food, be ready to ask for sauces on the side or choose milder items like risotto or grilled chicken. Portions are designed for sharing, so for hungry teens, plan on an extra side or small plate to keep everyone happy.
At a Glance
- Cedar plank salmon and triple-cooked potatoes are consistent standouts
- Stylish space with kitchen counter and terrace seating
- Service can be uneven with occasional rigidity on seating or time limits
- Portions can feel modest for the price if not ordering enough
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- cedar_plank_salmon_preparation
- open_kitchen_counter_seating
- grill-led_fusion_flavors
- neighborhood_terrace_setting
What People Love
- Smoky, well-seasoned cooking with bright sauces
- The cedar plank salmon that anchors the menu
- Friendly servers who offer thoughtful recommendations
- A stylish yet comfortable room that feels neighborhood-friendly
- Sharing plates that let you try a bit of everything
Points of Concern
- Service variability: several reports of slow billing, seating rigidity, and occasional rudeness, though many visits are warmly served
- Premium pricing with modest portions means costs rise if you want to leave very full
- Noise fluctuates; some nights feel louder than expected
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (staff name repetition, marketing language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Heritage Baby Tomato (£9) and Mastelo Cheese (£14), share Cedar Plank Salmon (£24), add Triple Cooked New Potatoes (£5), finish with a light dessert if available.
- Gluten-free diners can choose Chicken Thighs (£24) or Hake (£24) plus Green Beans (£6).
- Vegetarians can build a meal from Shakshuka (£13 lunch), Mushroom Risotto (£18), and sides.
Perfect For
- Date night with a focus on seafood and grill flavors
- Catching up with friends over shared plates and cocktails
- Local celebratory dinners without white-tablecloth stiffness
- Solo dining at the kitchen counter watching the action
Location Insights
Area: Affluent residential high street with boutiques and cafes; draws locals and destination diners seeking a polished but relaxed night out.
Safety: Generally very safe with steady foot traffic and good lighting in evenings.
Nearby: Near Regent's Park and Abbey Road; mix of neighborhood shoppers and visitors; convenient for pre- or post-park dining.
St John's WoodAn exclusive and sophisticated neighborhood characterized by beautiful Georgian and Victorian homes, tree-lined streets, and a refined dining scene. Known for its proximity to Lord's Cricket Ground and attracting a discerning, well-heeled clientele.
St John's Wood High StreetA charming commercial strip featuring boutique shops, upscale cafes, and local restaurants catering to the neighborhood's sophisticated demographic.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–14:45, 17:00–21:45
Tuesday12:00–14:45, 17:00–21:45
Wednesday12:00–14:45, 17:00–21:45
Thursday12:00–14:45, 17:00–21:45
Friday12:00–14:45, 17:00–21:45
Saturday12:00–14:45, 17:00–21:45
Sunday12:00–15:00, 17:30–20:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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