Been to Galvin La Chapelle a few times and it has always been a culinary treat. This time it was for my birthday, but could it maintain its unerring consistency and was it any good? Time to find out...
Ideal for:
Fine continental food
Special occasions
Intimate dates
Ambience & Décor
Nestled in the heart of the City lay the converted chapel. High vaulted ceilings with ornate lattice work of steel supports gave the immediate wow factor. The two large spiral chandeliers illuminated diners with an intimate glow. The mezzanine level is perfect for dates, special occasions and it is here that I was seated. The lively, ground floor ambience was a total antithesis to the mezzanine but both cater for all occasions.
Service
The service was a hallmark of Galvin La Chapelle and once again it was at its superlative levels. The mezzanine level had their own complement of waiting staff all incredibly dapper, astute and friendly. This service should be a benchmark for restaurants.
Food
The Menu de Chef celebrates the best of Galvin, and I started with the mackerel (left). Charred fillet with cucumber, dill and pickled Tokyo turnip. All items were perfectly cooked and well-seasoned. The saltiness from the fish, freshness from the cucumber and the tartness of the turnip were quite enjoyable. Delicate and stripped back dish, but great flavours and textures.
Went adventurous with the mains of calves’ liver with king cabbage, Alsace bacon and Madeira jus (right). Whilst cooked well, the odd texture combination of liver, cabbage and bacon was not palatable. The rich Madeira jus masked some of the bland tones in the dish. Overall, not something I would order again due to the peculiar textures, tepid liver seasoning and disconnected flavour pairings.
I needed a palate cleanser, so I ordered the Soufflé of Yorkshire rhubarb and pain d’épices ice cream (left). The dish was not overly sweet, which is how I like it, and the rhubarb was not sour. The ice cream and soufflé are technically challenging but both executed to perfection. I loved the flavour combinations and something to savour.
Galvin La Chapelle has been a pioneer in bringing the dishes of the Continent to the City and whilst previously all dishes have been a hit, there was a miss tonight with the liver. The great service and décor glosses over the blemishes and reward must be given for past fantastic dining experiences. Overall an A rating.
Photos of Galvin La Chapelle and more can be found on Instagram here.
Final grade: A
Final comment: One of the best spots in London for dates & fine dining. Rarely falters.
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