Simon Radley at Chester Grosvenor

Christopher J. ( 30s, Male, London )

One of the first things that struck me as being unusual about the Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor was the menus. For a formal restaurant in classic 5* hotel which is almost a century and half old I did not expect to see items on the menu headed ‘Pond Life’ (Watercress whip with crayfish tails, garlic snails and frog’s leg bonbon) or ‘Liquid Ravioli’ (Roast Pollock with smoked aubergine, Olive press and vegetable Niçoise). Another unexpected surprise was the presence of a large bread trolley, wheeled over to our table with a selection of eight breads all baked in house and sliced by a gloved waiter, at the table. The Wine list too was yet another revelation, 1000 bins ranging from a Stellenbosch at £28 to a double magnum 1976 La Romanee-Conti at £12,000. Refreshingly, the Sommeliers recommendations began at the lower end and slowly crept up only after several suggestions which is not something one often sees.

The cooking at Simon Radley was a triumph – one of our party wasn’t convinced that Veal and Tuna made perfect bedfellows but all other dishes were received with unreserved enthusiasm. The service during the meal was attentive and friendly, deserts were consistent in presentation, originality and quality and our experience was made complete by a fully loaded, old-school Cheese trolley, followed quickly by the bread trolleys second visit to our table. True to form, Grapes were placed carefully on our table – in a crystal bowl and on crushed ice.

This was Michelin Starred Northern Hospitality as its very, very best.