Blacklock Covent Garden is a premier British chophouse located in a historic basement on Bedford Street, renowned for its high-quality, sustainable chops and “almost as good as Mum’s” Sunday roasts. Since opening in April 2022, this fourth location of the Blacklock stable has become a cornerstone of London’s “Theatreland” dining scene, occupying the former 1600s home of the King’s Coachmakers. The restaurant is famous for its “All In” sharing platters, where a heady mix of beef, pork, and lamb skinny chops are piled high on charcoal-grilled flatbread for a fixed price (currently £27 per person). By sourcing exclusively from regenerative farmer and butcher Philip Warren in Cornwall, Blacklock offers premium, dry-aged meats at accessible prices, all within a moody, industrial-chic atmosphere that balances vintage heritage with modern ethics.
Heritage and History of the Building
The restaurant is located at 16a Bedford Street, tucked away in a disused basement that boasts a rich artisan history. Long before it became a culinary destination, the site served as the workshop for the King’s Coachmakers in the 1600s, contributing to the craftsmanship that defined the Covent Garden area for centuries.
During the renovation, the Blacklock team meticulously uncovered original heritage walls and old floors that had been hidden for decades. This preservation effort creates a dining environment that feels deeply rooted in London’s past, featuring exposed brickwork, low-slung ceilings, and a “dark and moody” aesthetic that pays homage to the site’s industrial origins.
The Gargoyle Nightclub Connection
Interestingly, the building also shares its history with the legendary 1920s nightclub The Gargoyle. This subterranean space was once a hub for London’s high-society bohemians, and that same spirit of lively, communal gathering is reflected in Blacklock’s 10-meter-long communal wooden tables crafted from repurposed church pews.
The Famous Sunday Roast
Sundays at Blacklock Covent Garden are a dedicated ritual where the kitchen setup literally changes to accommodate traditional roasting methods. The grills are swapped for open coals and English oak, over which whole joints of meat are hung and gently roasted.
The roast is served with duck fat roast potatoes, massive Yorkshire puddings, seasonal vegetables, and an “unsparing amount” of Blacklock gravy. For those who can’t choose between meats, the “Sunday All In” allows groups to share a mix of beef, lamb, and pork roasts, ensuring no one leaves hungry.
Sustainability and “Planet Promise”
Blacklock is not just a restaurant; it is a purpose-led business currently pursuing B Corp certification. This means they legally commit to balancing profit with the health of the planet and the well-being of their staff.
As part of their “Planet Promise,” Blacklock plants a tree for every guest who dines with them. To date, this initiative has resulted in over 125,000 trees being planted in the “Blacklock Forest.” Furthermore, their “Cocktails That Give Back” program donates a portion of every cocktail sale to End Youth Homelessness, making your dinner a charitable act.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours
Monday – Friday: 12:00pm – 3:00pm | 4:45pm – 10:30pm
Saturday: 12:00pm – 10:30pm
Sunday: 11:45am – 8:00pm (Last Seating)
How to Get There
The restaurant is located at 16a Bedford Street, London, WC2E 9HE. It is centrally located with excellent transport links:
Covent Garden Station: 3-minute walk (Piccadilly Line).
Leicester Square Station: 5-minute walk (Northern and Piccadilly Lines).
Charing Cross Station: 6-minute walk (Bakerloo, Northern, and National Rail).
Reservation Tips
Book Early: For Sunday roasts, booking 2–4 weeks in advance is highly recommended.
Walk-ins: Blacklock keeps a significant portion of the restaurant available for walk-ins. If the restaurant is full, they operate a virtual waiting list, allowing you to grab a drink at a nearby pub while you wait for a text.
Groups: Groups of 6 or more can reserve the brick-arch private dining room for a more intimate “feasting” experience.
FAQs
What is the “All In” at Blacklock?
The “All In” is a sharing platter that includes pre-chop bites followed by a large pile of beef, pork, and lamb skinny chops served on charcoal-grilled flatbread with your choice of side. It is designed for two or more people.
How much does a meal at Blacklock Covent Garden cost?
A typical meal (the “All In”) costs £27 per person for the meat, with sides priced around £4.80 and cocktails starting at £5 during “fiver” hours.
Is Blacklock Covent Garden dog-friendly?
While policies can vary by site and time of day, Blacklock is generally welcoming to well-behaved dogs, though it is best to mention this in your booking notes as the basement can be loud and crowded.
Do they have vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, despite being a chophouse, they offer dishes like the Mushroom & Baby Leek Kebabs and a dedicated Veggie Sunday Roast with vegetarian gravy and all the trimmings.
What is the “fiver” cocktail deal?
Blacklock is famous for its £5 cocktails, typically available during specific lunch and early evening windows. Their “Cocktails That Give Back” also support youth homelessness charities.
Where does Blacklock get its meat?
All meat is sourced from Philip Warren, a regenerative farmer and butcher based in Cornwall who has partnered with Blacklock since their first Soho opening in 2015.
What are the best sides to order?
The Beef Dripping Chips and the 10 Hour Ash Roasted Sweet Potato are the most popular choices. The Barbecued Baby Gems with Anchovy Dripping is a highly-rated lighter option.
Is Blacklock Covent Garden accessible for wheelchairs?
Because the restaurant is located in a historic basement, access can be challenging. It is highly recommended to contact the restaurant directly at coventgarden@theblacklock.com to discuss specific requirements before your visit.
What is the White Chocolate Cheesecake?
It is Blacklock’s signature “retro” dessert, served “family style” directly from a large tray at your table. It is widely considered one of the best value desserts in London.
Can I book a table for a Sunday Roast?
Yes, but you should book at least 14–21 days in advance, as Sunday is their busiest day. They do hold some tables for walk-ins, but the wait can be several hours.
What is the service charge?
Blacklock adds a discretionary 12.5% service and hospitality charge to the bill, which is shared entirely among the team members.
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