The Ambassador is like a favourite uncle: you defer to its better judgement, impeccable taste and  ambivalent charm. A simple menu betrays the quality of produce and diverse flavours.  The relaxed, familiar atmosphere puts you instantly at ease.

On our visit I started with a glass of Palermo Milano: Prosecco with Campari and Sicilian blood orange juice. We then ordered venison, pork and leek terrine and the smoked mackerel pate. The combined flavours of the venison and pork coarsely mixed together with the leek meant you didn’t even need the grilled poilane sourdough toast – it tasted fabulous without it. 

Stealing a bit of my boyfriend’s mackerel pate I found it melted in my mouth, creamy to taste while the cucumber salad complemented it with a fresh crunch. After sipping on our smooth 2005 Saint Joseph Pierre Gonon red, and leaning back on our soft booth style seat, we felt totally at ease.

Then came our main courses and my cider-soaked mussels were a surprising improvement on the normal moules marinière. The cider made the mussels even more juicy and flavoursome. The boyfriend tucked into his pork belly. I am never a huge fan of pork belly. I generally find it too fatty and rich, but the clever chef at The Ambassador spit roast this little pig, and so a lot of the fat had dripped out and in its place appeared perfectly crisp crackling.  The skin was crisp, the meat tender and the marbled herb stuffing a delightful extra.

By the time it came to pudding we were full to brim with food. I decided to pass on dessert while my boyfriend chose a chocolate and orange mousse with honeycomb on the side, but when it arrived I changed my mind.

The Ambassador does a special seasonal four-course dinner once a month on Monday nights for between £40-£45 per head. The food is always exceptional, and with a different glass of wine with each course included you end up leaving rather contentedly tipsy. 

The Ambassador
55 Exmouth Market
Clerkenwell
EC1R 4QL

Tel: 020 7837 0009