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With a single dessert and just two glasses of wine our bill was kept in check - but the effort of doing so was not much fun
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A Night Out in London: St Katharine Docks & Zizzi
By Amira Hashish, Evening Standard 01.10.09
Relaxing: restaurants and bars surround St Katharine Docks
Delicious: There is a great selection of pasta dishes at Zizzi
View from the Bridge: St Katharine Docks is close to some of London's most popular tourist attractions
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St Katharine Docks offer a relaxing and picturesque setting for a night out in London. Rich history merges with modern city life to make this one of the hidden gems of the capital; fitting for a spot close to the Tower of London. Originally home to St Katharine's by the Tower Hospital, built in the 12th century, the docks were developed in 1828 and used to import 19th century goods. Nowadays, they act as an exquisite yacht harbour surrounded by a selection of restaurants and bars.
A window seat at Zizzi is the ideal place for dinner with a view. Located on the harbour, the calming influence of the water complements the minimalist and sophisticated style of this Italian restaurant. And the extensive menu offers a good selection for various tastes.
The Tricolore Con Bufala is a classic option for starter but it is easily ruined if not prepared well. However, Zizzi do a delicious version of the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is drizzled over baby plum tomatoes, buffalo milk mozzarella, avocado and basil for a rich taste. A recent addition to the menu is Angelo's Mussels. The sautéed mussels with garlic, cream and fresh parsley are a must if you are in the mood for seafood.
For main course chose from pasta, pizza, calzone, risotto or a salad. The seasonal Linguine Gamberi is delectable; the pasta is tossed in a tomato based sauced with tiger prawns and fresh chilli. A meat option is steak served with crisp, sautéed potatoes. Make sure you leave room for pudding though as this is a generous portion.
A favourite for dessert is the Torta Cioccolata. This rich chocolate torte on a thick hazelnut chocolate moose is served with vanilla mascarpone and it tastes as good as it sounds. But if you are still feeling too full after your previous courses, a lighter alternative is fresh sorbet.
The friendly staff at Zizzi are pleased to offer advice on which dishes to choose. And with the new Winter menu it is a good idea to ask for more information on the latest selection.
A stroll around the docks is a delightful way to end the evening and if you have time for a drink there are some great bars to try nearby. The Tower Thistle Hotel bars have wonderful views over Tower Bridge or the Dickens Inn provides a welcoming atmosphere.
Some of London's most popular tourist attractions are located in the surrounding area including the Tower of London, the London Dungeon, the Globe and the Southwark Playhouse. So a trip to St Katharine Docks could be the perfect way to spend an evening after a day of sightseeing or a pleasant post work treat.
*Nearest tube to St Katharine Docks is Tower Bridge.
*For more information on Zizzi visit www.zizzi.co.uk
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