East End Flavour: The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen's Street Food Revival
- James Massoud
- May 27
- 3 min read
Nestled within the vibrant Hotel Saint in Aldgate, The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen has swiftly become a standout destination in London's dynamic dining scene. Since its opening in spring 2024, this establishment has been captivating both locals and visitors with its innovative menu, inviting ambiance, and a commitment to delivering bold flavours inspired by the city's rich cultural tapestry.
Chef Glen Padiyar
At the helm of The Cardinal's kitchen is Executive Head Chef Glen Padiyar, who joined the team in November 2024. With a culinary journey that spans luxury hotels, private members’ clubs, and award-winning restaurants across London and Bahrain, Chef Glen brings a wealth of international experience to the table.
His philosophy centres on creating dishes that are both exciting and accessible:
“The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen strives to offer guests an exciting choice of dishes at an affordable price without compromising on quality. For the new menu, it was important to me to use seasonal ingredients, and ensure the flavours within the dishes were distinct and exciting, capturing the street food landscape in East London. In the new menus I wanted to deliver dishes to be enjoyed and shared.”
Drawing inspiration from his time under renowned chefs Robin Gill and Raymond Blanc, Chef Glen's menu reflects a harmonious blend of global influences and local ingredients, resulting in a dining experience that is both familiar and adventurous .
A Menu That Celebrates Diversity and Seasonality
The Cardinal's 'Kitchen Menu' is a testament to Chef Glen's commitment to bold flavours and seasonal produce. Small plates designed for sharing include Chicken Momos with crispy chilli oil, Samphire Bhajias accompanied by tamarind and mint chutney, and Confit Duck Bao with pickled cucumber.
Main courses offer a diverse selection, from the Salsa Verde Cod served in a butter bean broth to the Whole Baked Seabass glazed with miso and paired with pickled slaw. British classics are also well-represented, with offerings like Fish and Chips, Steak & Fries, and the signature Cardinal Burger. For dessert, indulgent options such as Nutella Filled Cookie Dough, Pistachio Cheesecake, and Strawberries & Cream Tart provide a sweet conclusion to the meal.
For those seeking a more structured dining experience, the Set Menu offers a selection of signature dishes for £35 per person. Additionally, the Midday Menu caters to business professionals with a range of main courses accompanied by a complimentary house beer, wine, or soft drink, perfect for a swift yet satisfying lunch.
An Inviting Atmosphere in a Historic Locale
Situated at 9 Aldgate High Street, The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen occupies a unique position at the intersection of London's financial district and the culturally rich East End. The restaurant's interior design strikes a balance between modern sophistication and cosy comfort, featuring banquette seating, wooden flooring, and thoughtfully placed lighting that creates an inviting ambiance.
The establishment's location within Hotel Saint adds to its allure, offering guests a seamless blend of dining and accommodation options. The hotel's proximity to landmarks such as Spitalfields Market and Shoreditch makes it an ideal spot for both tourists and locals seeking a memorable dining experience.
Expertly Crafted Cocktails and Beverages
Complementing the diverse menu is an extensive selection of cocktails and beverages curated by Bar Manager Samuele Lombardi. With a background in London's vibrant hospitality scene, Samuele brings a mix of charm and Italian flair to The Cardinal's bar.
Signature cocktails such as the Aldgate Royal and the Walbrook Fizz offer unique twists on classic recipes, while the comprehensive beverage list ensures there's something for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a pre-dinner aperitif or a nightcap, the bar's offerings enhance the overall dining experience.
Our personal recommendation – if you need one – is Tommy's Margarita. This was originally created by Julio Bermejo in 1988 in his father Tomas' restaurant in San Fran, replacing the cointreau with a healthier, authentic Mexican sweetener. This is now the de riguer margarita recipe: 818 Blanco Tequila, agave syrup and fresh lime, served over ice with a sea salt rim.
The Cardinal Bar & Kitchen stands as a shining example of London's evolving culinary landscape, where tradition meets innovation, and global flavours are celebrated in a local context. Under the visionary leadership of Chef Glen, the restaurant offers a dining experience that is both accessible and exceptional, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the rich tapestry of London's food scene.
