Steve's review of Le Gavroche

I hosted three business guests at a dinner at Le Gavroche in March 2009. The restaurant had not been my choice and I was slightly wary having been disappointed on a previous visit made by my wife and I, many years ago. My recollection from the past was of a rather gloomy business oriented restaurant, which failed to deliver on its (then) 3 star rating. I was therefore pleasantly surprised to see that my fellow diners included several couples and small groups of friends. Conversations were bubbly and the atmosphere was much more relaxed than I had remembered from the past. The tables are laid out closely but without compromising privacy; there are a series of semi-alcoves at the sides of the restaurant for couples. The waiters were courteous, polite and very (very) efficient. The standard of food surprised me, and (despite my trepidation) I was very impressed. My starter was artichoke with a foie gras, which was outstanding. I had T-bone of turbot to follow, which was served with a clam sauce, so light that it almost floated. My guests were equally impressed with their respective choices. The sommelier helped me with a choice of a white Chassagne Montrachet and red Bordeaux (the name eludes me) that impressed by guests, but also my bank manager. Not everyone wanted desert and so I chose the assiette du chef, which consisted of about ten different delicacies. We all tucked in – excellent! The bill, damaged by the wine, was £170 per head and I guess that I was OK (ish) about that. In summary, I left Le Gavroche much more impressed than I had previously. It delivered on the quality of the food and, contrary to many gourmet establishments, served up substantial portions that left me feeling fully satisfied. Would I go back? With a key business client, if the bill could be justified, then definitely yes. Would I take my wife there? No, there are more romantic places, which compare on service and food.