Dorothy & Marshall… steeped in history, evoking flashes of yesteryear
As locations go, this one is pretty unbeatable. I guess it depends what you’re into – there are no ocean views or sky-high panoramic sights to behold.
If, however, like me, your chosen vibe is a place steeped in history, evoking flashes of yesteryear and the generations that went before, I know just the space.
Dorothy & Marshall set up shop in what was the old Bromley Town Hall, keeping all the grandeur that one might expect.
Wood panelled walls remain and interiors that have stood the test of time help to create a magical ambience in a geographical landscape better known for town centre shopping and chain restaurants.
When I arrived one Thursday lunchtime, three other tables were taken: a business meeting, two ladies lunching and a young family, meeting up with adoring grandparents.
A mixed crowd indeed but a good indication that this is a one size fits all kind of a place.
In fact, aware that my companion was bringing her baby with her, the waiting staff quickly pointed me in the direction of the most suitable table in the house on which to pop the buggy aside.
Ours was a quick lunch date so we ordered fast and ate even more quickly.
An Express Lunch section on the menu suggested that we were in the right place.
A main course and drink comes in at £16.90 – a rare find these days.
Poached salmon fishcake was ordered for my friend and a plump, juicy and crispy crumb fried specimen was duly received, served with roasted garlic and herb mayonnaise and a side salad.
She added fries, which appeared to be complete with Cajun seasoning.
My friend is a chip purist and said that she would have preferred notification from the salted norm.
Grilled Iron Steak fitted the bill for me perfectly.
I was looking for a light, yet filling lunch, so one packed with protein and a salad with mustard seed dressing certainly hit the spot.
I asked the waiter to hold the skinny fries and add a portion of green beans.
I wasn’t in the mood for pudding but my friend’s Sticky Toffee Pudding could have easily fed two people.
I still managed to resist. Okay, truth time, I tested the muscovado caramel sauce for research purposes and it was really rather good – deeply buttery, velvety, with a sweet butterscotch flavour.
We stuck to the soft drinks but it would have been easy to while away the afternoon over a bottle of wine.
Dorothy & Marshall is open all day from breakfast through to dinner.
Breakfast looks particularly enticing, with everything from traditional Full English, to Parmesan Waffles and eggs cooked any style.
DOROTHY & MARSHALL
Old Town Hall, 4 Court Street
Bromley BR1 1AN
Picture: Fishcake Picture: Nic Crilly-Hargrave
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