15 January 2017

It’s been a while, but I’m back. My writer’s block has been partially attributable to my lack of enthusiasm for London’s restaurant scene over the past few months. I’m still looking for a recent new opening that really “wows” me but in the meantime, here’s a classic good’un that I was treated to a few weeks ago.

The Greenhouse is a two-michelin star restaurant with a tranquil tree lined entrance in the heart of Mayfair. The theme of tranquillity continues on throughout the restaurant with clean fresh colours and woodland details.

We were at the Greenhouse for a lazy Friday lunch so we took our time, sat back and enjoyed the calming surroundings. Myself and others agree that the restaurant is a stark contrast to the usual hustle and bustle of London.

Although we had the three course lunch menu, there were a few amuse-bouche plates to warm up our stomachs.

Firstly, the Jerusalem Artichoke Marshmallow…

A Duck and Horseradish Crisp with Sorrel (which was divine)…

A Bouillabaisse Tart…the liquid centre was very fishy which was not to my liking but my fellow diner enjoyed it…and they looked pretty.

And in this final amuse bouche (which was akin to a starter) there was the most incredible mix of flavours…Apple, Crab, Coconut Mousse and Curry Powder. Yes, it sounds odd but the professionals clearly know what they are doing. It was delightful.

For my starter I went for the Hen’s Egg with Parmesan Tuile, Bacon Jam and Watercress Sorbet. I was curious by the sound of the Hen’s Egg but soon realised that it’s just a normal egg. I guess an egg is termed a “Hen’s Egg” at a two-michelin star restaurant. The starter was good but the Bacon Jam was very potent and I’m not a fan of Parmesan so I nibbled at it slowly. Overall though, a great combination of flavours that worked well for this wholesome starter.

Squid, Anya Potatoes and Red Peppers with Thai flavoured Coconut Soup.

My fellow diner enjoyed his starter although we were about to realise that the fusion ingredients were going to repeat themselves in future courses.

His main course continued along the same theme…Plaice with Coriander, Coconut, Bean and Red Pepper…

Although the repetition of ingredients may seem well, repetitive, I quite liked the fact that a very well established restaurant in London which is described as “traditionally French” is embracing eastern flavours. And I’m pleased to say that they all worked exceptionally well.

I went for the lovely Venison, Sorbe and Pumpkin with Cime de Rapa (Turnip Leaves). It was delicious and a perfectly sized portion for lunch. As you would expect for a restaurant of this calibre, the Venison spoke for itself – there was no need for accompaniments.

Desserts were wonderful and mine particularly so. In fact, I would go as far as saying it’s the best chocolate based dessert I have had in a restaurant to date – well, strike that – it comes in at a very close second to the Chocolate Fondant at Nobu. It was called Chestnut, Mandarin and Equatorial Chocolate. And similarly to the “Hen’s Egg” situation, Equatorial Chocolate is just chocolate from any area near the Earth’s surface that is equidistant from the North Pole and South Pole…

My fellow diner opted for the Coconut and Grapefruit meringue, a smart and refreshing choice after a rich lunch and a couple of glasses of wine.

Alongside our dessert wine and coffee, we were presented with two Matcha Lollies and some handmade Chocolates…

I loved the “G” on the Lollies…a clever way to remind you of the restaurant’s brand before you leave.

All in all I had a great meal at the Greenhouse. My favourite course was the Venison and my favourite part of the dining experience was the soothing and relaxed surroundings with the woodland charm; I would recommend lunch over dinner to get the full effect of this. The Greenhouse is a confident restaurant and you feel that from start to finish. It’s not too try hard, it is what it is and it really was delightful.

Rating: 

http://www.greenhouserestaurant.co.uk/