12 March, 2014
NYC Dreaming at Balthazar London
Any global foodie will tell you how exciting it is when popular restaurants from around the world cross over to your city. Balthazar was an old favourite during my NYC days. The French brasserie opened in London almost a year ago and has been on my list of ‘restaurants to visit’ ever since. Finally made it to Balthazar for dinner last Friday with some friends visiting from Hong Kong.
Located in Covent Garden, Balthazar London is an exact replica of the restaurant in New York City. The famous owner, Keith McNally, spent a reported £14 million on recreating the original space – from the huge pillars and mirrors to the sepia lighting that warms the entire dining room making everything (and, everyone!) look beautiful.
Balthazar London
The Balthazar London menu includes all the favourite French classics with a clear and heavy bias towards seafood.
Menu
It took us all some time to decide what we wanted – everything looked and sounded so good. In the end, my heart chose a decadent bowl of French Onion Soup and the head ordered a much lighter roasted cod fillet for my main.
Onion Soup Gratinee – French Onion Soup
It had been a few years since I last had French Onion Soup so this was definitely a treat. The cheese was stringy but the soup broth was bursting with flavour and comfort. The soup was quite heavy so I was glad to have a friend share it with me.
Roasted Cod Fillet with grilled fennel, broad beans and salt cod brandade
The lightness of the cod was needed after the heavy soup and although it was enjoyable, it wasn’t anything special. Oh well.
Spaghetti with Lobster, roast tomatoes and basil
What was memorable were the few bites I had of Mr. A’s Lobster Spaghetti – the flavours were outstanding and I was left picking away at my cod, with a major case of food envy.
Rhubarb Souffle with creme anglaise
I had done my research before our meal and knew exactly what to order for dessert. The delicious Rhubarb Souffle, a Balthazar specialty, is served with a warm custard and is simply, amazing.
Balthazar was an enjoyable meal, complete with great wine and company. I am already plotting another visit just to indulge in my own plate of lobster spaghetti. Balthazar also offers an brunch menu and a boulangerie next door to the main restaurant where you can get amazing French breads, quiches and more. Yum!
For more info and to try your luck at getting a table, visit www.balthazarlondon.com