Heliot Steak House review: The epic London steak restaurant with the most interesting view in the city

On Thursday night, I was fortunate enough to be invited to review Heliot Steak House at the Hippodrome.

My usual dining partner (the boyfriend) had other plans, so it was the turn of hardened carnivore and my big brother to step up to the plate. So here ensues the first installment of Rabbett (plural) Reviews.

Located within the glitzy confines of the Hippodrome Casino, Heliot Steak House arguably boasts one of the most interesting views in the city. While you might not be able to see the city’s ample skyline, it is the perfect spot to sit and people-watch.

From the lofty heights of the Heliot Steak House, I remarked how I felt like a 1920s gangster watching over my empire.

The menu at Heliot is great, it’s a cliché to say there’s something for everyone, but if you’re a meat lover, there is.

We started our meal with a glass of wine, chosen by the house sommelier. It was a deep sticky Portuguese red, called Callabriga Douro. It was ripe with rich fruity flavours and almost resembled port in its smell and texture. It was a hit with both of us, and we agreed it would be a smash hit at Christmas.

Heliot has a fantastic wine menu boasting more than 120 options.

To pair with the wine we had some warm fresh bread with oil and balsamic vinegar, it’s a classic for a reason and it was the perfect start to a decadent and filling meal.

Starters included tuna tartare, an American prawn cocktail, and other delicious dishes. We opted for the trio of sliders and the goats’ cheese lollipops. Both starters arrived atop smoking boxes that reminded us of ships. It was a delightful touch, that left us giggling.

The trio of sliders (beef, lamb, and venison) was perfectly bitesize and each carried a unique flavour profile. Surprisingly, we both agreed the lamb was the burger king.

While over on my side of the table, my palate and brain were doing battle over my starter. Crispy, golden, lightly fried balls of goat cheese served with lemon curd and freeze-dried raspberries.

It looked like a dessert but the flavour was infinitely savoury. It shouldn’t have worked but it really did - it was sweet, salty, sour, and deliciously moreish. Cheese lovers will get it.

While we waited for our mains to arrive (some seriously big boy steaks incoming) we marvelled at the people enjoying the casino below, noting that the tables with pretty blonde dealers were more popular for some reason...

The Hippodrome really offers a slice of Las Vegas here in London, from slots to shots and enormous US steaks.

This is a great opportunity to give a shout-out to our server Sarah, who was sweet, attentive, and knowledgeable about the venue and menu. She took care of us all night, topping up our wines and waters, and gave decisive recommendations from the menu. She was friendly, professional, and lots of fun.

Right now we’re onto the main event... brace yourselves things are about to get meaty.

Steak House by name Steak House by nature, Heliot is a heaven for meat lovers.

The menu offers various steaks, from Australian to Argentinian and American. You might think a steak is a steak, right? Wrong.

Unlike any other I’ve had before, I opted for a USDA Sirloin, which was beautifully marbled and tender. It cut like butter and was packed full of rich flavour.

I topped mine with mushrooms and had the Heliot sauce which was rich, smoky, spicy ketchup sauce - perfect for dunking fries.

My dining companion opted for the Australian T Bone, which he described as flavourful, supple, and succulent.

All cuts are aged for a minimum of four to six weeks to allow for full tenderness and flavour, before being trimmed, seasoned, and cooked to the diner’s liking.

As well as individual cuts, the restaurant’s menu also boasts a wildly popular tasting board, featuring three different steaks making it the perfect choice for those wanting to share and sample a range of meats and cuts.

I was surprised by how different the two steaks tasted, each delivering something different. We opted for a range of sides including Tenderstem broccoli, rosemary fries, creamed spinach, and millionaires mac and cheese.

The sides were well-executed but wholly overshadowed by the steaks, which were the main event. I enjoyed the millionaire’s mac and cheese, flavoured with truffle and topped with a runny poached egg. It was different and delicious.

Finally, and last but definitely not least it was onto the puds. I opted for the latest menu item a pistachio lava cake, which was undoubtedly one of the yummiest things I have ever tasted.

It was sweet, it was creamy, nutty, buttery, and explosive with pistachio cream. I sent photos of it to all my friends because I knew they’d be green with envy.

While my brother opted for the rich and unctuous chocolate gateau. A must for chocoholics looking for something sharp, sweet, and decadent to finish off their meal.

Overall impressions

There are so many positives to talk about from my experience at Heliot Steak House. The service, the food, the immaculate vibes, and the interesting location.

It’s ideal for an all-in night out with friends, you can grab dinner, and a show (Magic Mike) then head to the slots all under one roof, and then hop on the underground home (it’s a stumbling distance out of the door.)

The food is exemplary, surprising, elevated, and creative. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. And the vibes were great. I support my earlier statement that I think this restaurant has one of the most interesting views in the city.

I’ve never been to Vegas but I’m certain the Hippodrome and Heliot is as close as you can get to it in London without being at an airport.

I had a great night, and I’d certainly be back if the opportunity arose. It’s a fun venue, that doesn’t take itself too seriously and simultaneously serves up some great food and excellent wines. There’s a reason why this late-night bar and restaurant has served the West End for years and I’m certain it will continue to do so.