Quaglino’s is the original super restaurant bursting with iconic heritage and has always had a special place within London’s vibrant, social, fine dining landscape
Quaglino’s has been one of Mayfair’s premier fine dining destinations over the years and is famed for the eclectic clientele it attracts, the excellent cuisine, premium wines and spirits and the electric atmosphere it generates via its superb live musical performances from bands and artists on offer to diners five times a week.
I was greeted by a welcoming smile from the elegant hostess at the reception who showed my guest and I to our awaiting table. The grand staircase at Quaglino’s is breath-taking and falls into place with the rich art deco interior design that adorns this sophisticated outpost.
Once seated, a flurry of activity besieged our table as the suave waiting staff took our orders with military precision. This was followed by the very experienced and knowledgeable Sommelier who advised on a selection of excellent wines for my guest.
The restaurant was busy and full of vibrancy as the thrilling band on stage were performing classic tracks such as John Legend’s – Ordinary People and Amy Winehouse’s Valerie which were well received by the plethora of diners during the evening.
My starter arrived swiftly and I went for the Chicken liver parfait, bacon crumble, drunken raisins and orange salad with toasted brioche. This dish was rich and smooth in taste, the Chicken pate was heavenly, and from my first mouthful, it was evident as to why this starter continues to be such a delicious crowd pleaser. My guest went for the Earl grey and orange cured salmon, apple gel, salted lemon emulsion and keta caviar of which was thoroughly enjoyed.
For my main course, it was the Provençale crust lamb cannon and glazed heritage carrots that caught my eye and it didn’t let me down. The lamb was cooked perfectly, succulent and nicely balanced with the tasty grazed heritage carrots and the flavoursome capers that completed this first class dish. My guest went for the splendid 40 day aged Angus rib-eye fillet, roasted garlic and béarnaise sauce which was beautifully presented and I am told divine on the palate.
I was completely full at this stage, but when the dessert menu arrived, my guest and I had just enough room to sample the Praline and caramel sphere with hot chocolate sauce. Our waiter tapped gently at the top of the chocolate sphere allowing a small entry point to pour the hot silky chocolate sauce into the main body of the dessert which looked amazing and was pure theatre to watch. This was chocolate paradise at its very best and a dessert I absolutely recommend.
My Quaglino’s dining experience was truly sublime from start to finish, and coupled with a first-rate a la carte menu, head-turning interiors, slick service from the waiting staff, and a magnetic atmosphere generated from the outstanding live band, I am looking forward to returning to this majestic Mayfair restaurant to sample the remaining delicacies on their sumptuous menu.
Quaglino’s – Where and How?
Quaglino’s is located at 16 Bury Street, St James’s, London, SW1Y 6AJ. To make a dinner reservation, please visit www.quaglinos-restaurant.co.uk or call 0207 930 6767.