London Roof Garden Perfection: B.O.B's Lobster, The Gardening Society, John Lewis London

I have been back from Maine for exactly six days. Six days, people, and I'm already eating lobster again! I mention this because the lobster I had today, on the roof terrace of John Lewis, on Oxford Street, tasted as if I was eating it on my back porch in Maine. Yes, the rumours are true. B.O.B's lobster rolls are the best lobster rolls this side of the Atlantic, and this comes from a seasoned professional. What are my qualifications? Well, I've been chomping down on lobster rolls in New England since I was old enough to eat on my own. I'd say 30 plus years in the game gives me a bit of a leg up on what's what when it comes to a good lobster roll.

B.O.B's lobster roll is, first of all, a full quarter pound of lobster prepared perfectly, not over-seasoned so as to drown the taste of actual lobster. This is half the battle won. No names need be mentioned but plenty of establishments in London have got this wrong-  all wrong. Adding random ingredients to spice things up when you are eating one of the finest seafoods out there is just plan sacrilege when it comes to food preparation. Secondly, and perhaps just as important when it comes to preparation, let's talk about the bun. B.O.B's lobster roll comes in a butter grilled brioche bun that melts in your mouth and only adds to the delicious taste that the lobster presents with every mouthful. In short, I couldn't find one fault with this lobster roll or the setting in which I inhaled it.

So about this setting. B.O.B's Lobster is usually a food truck, but it has popped up for the month of July at The Gardening Society at John Lewis Oxford Street in London. What's that you say? What's The Gardening Society? Oh heavens me, sit down and take notes. This is the new hot spot in central London for those looking for a little fun in the sun, whether at midday or after work. The Gardening Society is a rooftop garden that is found in the most unlikely of settings. It's an oasis in a cement jungle. It's a patch of green in an otherwise grey London world. It's also a favorite new place for folks to find peace during a quick lunch hour - whether eating at B.O.B's Lobster or simply enjoying a coffee with a good read. 

While B.O.B's Lobster is only in residence for another week, and reservations are still being taken, there will be further pop-ups throughout the summer. Not to worry. I'll keep you well informed...

The Gardening Society,

John Lewis Oxford Street,

London