Located in the Kimpton Mason & Rook Hotel, Radiator is the hotel’s signature restaurant, complete with a fantastic rooftop lounge. Open for dinner, brunch, and breakfast, I recently visited Radiator when researching an article I was writing about impossible meat. In the process, I sampled a host of other dishes from Chef Jonathan Dearden. I was deeply impressed by the variety and quality of the dishes I tried so here’s my full report…
The Menu
Chef Jonathan Dearden has created a wildly interesting menu comprised of dishes, flavors, and ingredients from all over the world. From Spanish croquetas to sriracha deviled eggs to classic American grilled cheese to cauliflower chilaquiles, dining at Radiator is like taking a culinary trip around the globe. Housemade butternut squash ravioli, served in a pool of brown butter emulsion, blanketed in flakes of parmesan cheese, and studded with walnuts, will melt in your mouth.
The Mediterranean charred eggplant, adorned with freshly fried pita chips, is smoky and luscious. Cauliflower chilaquiles are similarly delicious, the hunks of cauliflower come in a puddle of a bold tomato sauce, bejeweled with pepitas and tortilla strips, and drizzled with a rich cashew crema. My personal favorite at Radiator was the bucatini, where noodles are swirled in a velvety tomato sauce and topped with decadent impossible meatballs.
The Drinks
Just like the food, the cocktails are internationally inspired: try the Like Water for Chocolate, with tequila and creme de cacao, the I Spend My Winters in Bolivia, with Singani 63, cranberry and pomegranate, or the Sunrise Over Osaka, with Suntory, vanilla, orange, and cava. Each one is balanced, dry and boozy.
The Vibe
Radiator is relaxed and cozy, with huge booths and low lighting. Curl up with your date and take a trip around the world without ever leaving your comfy spot. Afterward, head upstairs to the bar for drinks with a view.
