I tried to go to Bubbledogs when it had just opened, but the
queue was so long we weren’t going to get a table until after 11 so decided
against it. This would put some people off, but not me, I was determined to eat
there.
The concept is simple. American Hot Dogs served with grower
Champagnes. Genius. The restaurant is
run by power couple James Knappett (Chef) and Sandia Chang, who both previously
worked at Noma, the world’s best restaurant of 2011. The couple have lived up
to expectations, as their newest venture is a roaring success.
I went there for dinner with a few friends on a Wednesday
evening and we arrived at 6pm but still had to queue for over an hour. I
personally think it’s worth the wait. The restaurant is really small but the
turn around is quite quick, so if you don’t mind standing in the queue having a
catch up, the wait isn’t an issue.
There are ten hot dogs to choose from. Some are quite plain
where as others are adventurous, for example the Jose with salsa, avocado, sour
cream and pickled jalapenos. The waiter recommended the Sloppy Joe, which is
their most popular hot dog. It was delicious. They’re not massive, so I would
advise having a side order. They don’t do standard chips; its ‘tots’ or sweet
potato. I went for tots, which were very yummy, but I couldn’t finish them all.
If you’re looking for more than a hot dog, there is the
option to book the 19-seater ‘Kitchen Table’, where chef Knappett cooks up a
scrumptious five course meal, talking you through the gastronomic experience
dish by dish. This starts at £50 per head.
The decor is cosy and fun, with cartoon illustrations of
dogs covering the walls. The atmosphere is also great, but I think that’s
because everyone has been waiting outside for so long.
I wouldn’t necessarily associate having a glass of champagne
with a hot dog, but it was an excellent combination. I spent about £20, so for
a mid-week meal that I enjoyed, I’m happy to pay that and would happily go back.
Scores:
Food: 7/10,
Simple yet filling and delicious
Ambience: 8/10,
they had a great playlist, even played Jitter Bug, one of my top five songs of
all time.
Value for money:
7/10, It’s not cheap (especially if you have more than 1 glass of champers) but
it doesn’t blow the budget.
Would I go again:
YES PLEASE.
