Business Details
Modern Mediterranean Dining Experience in St Albans
Established in a meticulously renovated 600-year-old building within St Albans' Cathedral Quarter, we have redefined modern Mediterranean and Greek dining since our opening. Our culinary philosophy centres on seasonal produce of exceptional quality, sourced locally where possible, and transformed into dishes that balance tradition with innovation. The menu showcases creative interpretations of regional classics, complemented by an extensive wine list featuring curated selections by the glass through our Coravin system. Our Loft Bar offers a vibrant atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails and weekly changing single-bottle wine discoveries, while our private dining spaces cater to special occasions and events.The team combines decades of hospitality experience with a commitment to exceptional service, ensuring every guest experiences both culinary excellence and memorable ambiance. We maintain rigorous quality standards across all offerings, from our signature mezze platters to premium cuts of meat and seafood grilled to perfection. Sustainability principles guide our supplier relationships and operational practices, reinforcing our position as a respected culinary destination in Hertfordshire. Recognised with the UK Enterprise Award for 2019-2020, we continue to set benchmarks for contemporary dining experiences in historic settings.
Services
Mediterranean Restaurant
Private Dining
Loft Bar
Event Planning
Seasonal Menus
Highlights and features
- We operate from a meticulously restored 600-year-old historic building
- Our menus feature seasonal produce sourced from trusted local suppliers
- We offer private dining spaces for special occasions and events
- Our Coravin wine system preserves premium wines for perfect by-the-glass service
- Awarded Best Upscale Contemporary Restaurant 2019-2020 by UK Enterprise Awards
Associations and certifications
- UK Enterprise Awards
Services
Mediterranean Restaurant
Our restaurant offers contemporary Mediterranean and Greek cuisine crafted from seasonal ingredients. Dishes combine traditional recipes with modern techniques, featuring locally sourced produce and premium meats/seafood. The historic setting enhances the dining experience with its unique ambiance.
Private Dining
Exclusive private dining areas accommodate special occasions and corporate events. Custom menus cater to dietary requirements with options ranging from mezze platters to premium cuts. The historic venue provides a distinctive backdrop for memorable gatherings.
Loft Bar
The vibrant bar area serves handcrafted cocktails, extensive wine selections, and premium spirits. Weekly changing single-bottle wine offerings complement the social atmosphere. Small plates and sharing dishes enhance the drinking experience in a lively setting.
Event Planning
Comprehensive event planning supports weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations. Custom menus and dedicated service teams ensure seamless execution. The venue's historic character adds unique appeal to any occasion.
Seasonal Menus
Menus evolve with the seasons to showcase the best available ingredients. Regular updates reflect agricultural cycles and culinary creativity. This approach ensures freshness, sustainability, and ongoing menu innovation throughout the year.
Questions
What type of cuisine does Loft St Albans serve?
We specialise in modern Mediterranean and Greek cuisine using seasonal ingredients.
Can I book private events at Loft St Albans?
Yes, we offer private dining spaces for special occasions and corporate events.
Do you offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, our menus include multiple vegetarian and vegan dishes using fresh produce.
What are your wine service features?
We use Coravin technology for premium wine by the glass and have weekly changing selections.
Is there parking available?
We recommend using nearby public parking facilities in central St Albans.
Reviews (5)
Vicki McWilliams
Jan 12, 2022
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Disappointing. One main and all sides were served cold. The team were very apologetic and replaced the dishes, but food doesn't then arrive all together making it awkward. The replacement main came back burnt so had to be replaced again. We did get a discount on the bill, but left feeling sad as we went there to celebrate a 70th birthday. It was a Monday night and we were the only people in the restaurant at the time. So disappointed as the menu looked fab.
Bohdan Duha
Dec 10, 2021
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THE WORST RISOTTO I EVER ATE! The chef doesn't care! We all understand the pressure hospitalities are under these days. To stock up is like a gamble, and you don't know how much to order or how long you will be trading for until the next restriction release. Your experienced staff are leaving, and the budget is thin.
...But you can always prepare delicious food for your customers with just essential ingredients. It's all about the experience, but if the chef can't deliver, you need to question it "WHY?"
Risotto is the most basic dish that every cook should be able to prepare. I ordered a mushroom
...But you can always prepare delicious food for your customers with just essential ingredients. It's all about the experience, but if the chef can't deliver, you need to question it "WHY?"
Risotto is the most basic dish that every cook should be able to prepare. I ordered a mushroom
Jo Morse
Dec 05, 2021
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Such a lovely atmosphere and all staff very attentive. Food was delicious, plentiful and not too pricey. I would unreservedly recommend and will certainly be going back but when I’m off my crutches!!!
Bridget Lowe
Oct 07, 2021
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The food was tasty enough though over priced (27 for a steak on a plate with sprig of watercress - and nothing else) but the whole evening was coloured by the standard of service. We were there as part of a large party and all had pre-ordered but service was very slow throughout the evening. We felt that we had to ask for everything: a drink after sitting waiting for a good 20 mins, a spoon for dessert and a refill of water etc. Not a good experience.
Robert King
Sep 21, 2021
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I will point out the few good bits in the hope that you do not read on further. The service was excellent, the young people who looked after us were a credit to their parents.
Unfortunately, that's where the good bit ends. The Loft has serious kitchen issues resulting in (1 example) two steaks orders both medium. the first was bleeding all over the plate the second was actually medium-well. I terms of consistency they were both as tough as old boots. We took them home and the dogs had no complaints.
Dessert, Chocolate fondants were actually OK but the crme brle had raw sugar on top, either
Unfortunately, that's where the good bit ends. The Loft has serious kitchen issues resulting in (1 example) two steaks orders both medium. the first was bleeding all over the plate the second was actually medium-well. I terms of consistency they were both as tough as old boots. We took them home and the dogs had no complaints.
Dessert, Chocolate fondants were actually OK but the crme brle had raw sugar on top, either
