Part of the Ricker Group (Great Eastern Dining Room, XOXO, E&O…), this lovely restaurant is located in the vibrant heart of Farringdon, usually under the siege by City regulars. The bar at the entrance welcomes you with a long procession of bottles, which are used to fantastic effect in inventive cocktails. Though don’t worry, the food is not and after thought here. Although this is not a fine dining restaurant, quality products are prepared with professionalism. Perhaps surprising from a chain like Rocker, but most of the dishes are actually well balanced and full of flavour.
If you have an overflowing wallet, then go for the barbecue black cod; certainly one of the best in town. Sweet and melting in the mouth, the portions are a good size too. A less pricey choice is the wagyu beef sashimi with sesame and shallots, though portions aren’t enormous, so you should most probably order two.
Also worth a mention is the quality pad thai, which is not too expensive and very tasty.
Overall, there are no faults, but there is nothing very exciting either; the food is nicely prepared. You might consider this place as being the Jamie Oliver of the Asian fusion – simple but good.
One major plus for Cicada is its terrace in summer. This London rarity, decked-out with long wooden tables along the edge of St John Street is a perfect spot for a lunch in the sun (if you can find any).
